TAMPA, Fla. (Jan. 24, 2025) — A new review led by researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center assessed how three genomic tests — Decipher, Oncotype DX Genomic Prostate Score (GPS) and Prolaris — can help doctors make better decisions about how to treat patients with early stage prostate cancer . The review, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine , shows that these tests can provide more detailed information about the cancer, but experts say more data is needed on the cost-effectiveness and clinical utility of these tests, as well as their impact on racial and ethnic groups, especially Black men. The review is part of a larger project from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs studying genomic classifier testing for prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. Doctors often use tests like prostate-specific antigen levels and Gleason scores to help decide how to treat it. Genomic tests look at the genes of the cancer cells, which can give doctors a better idea of how aggressive the cancer might be. This review examines how these tests can help doctors decide the best treatment options for patients.
What the Study Found:
Better Risk Assessment: The review showed that genomic tests helped doctors better understand how aggressive the disease is in patients with low-risk prostate cancer. For example:
“Genomic tests give us a clearer picture of how aggressive prostate cancer might be,” said Amir Alishahi Tabriz, M.D., Ph.D., assistant member in the Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior at Moffitt and lead author of the review. “While these tests show promise, we need more well-designed studies to see exactly how they can improve treatment for patients. This is an exciting area of research for the future of cancer care.”
This review highlights that genomic tests can improve how doctors assess prostate cancer risk, but they don’t always lead to major changes in treatment decisions. The study points out that more research is needed to understand exactly how these tests should be used in clinical practice.
This review was supported by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (PROSPERO: CRD42022347950).
A bout Moffitt Cancer Center
Moffitt is dedicated to one lifesaving mission: to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer. The Tampa-based facility is one of only 57 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers , a distinction that recognizes Moffitt’s scientific excellence, multidisciplinary research, and robust training and education. Moffitt’s expert nursing staff is recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center with Magnet ® status, its highest distinction. For more information, call 1-888-MOFFITT (1-888-663-3488), visit MOFFITT.org , and follow the momentum on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram and YouTube .
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Annals of Internal Medicine
Systematic review
Not applicable
Impact of Genomic Classifiers on Risk Stratification and Treatment Intensity in Patients With Localized Prostate Cancer
21-Jan-2025