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Lung cancer genetic testing in New Zealand

Year:
2015
Duration:
41 months
Approved budget:
$1,182,640.86
Researchers:
Professor Mark McKeage
Host:
The University of Auckland
Health issue:
Cancer (oncology)
Proposal type:
Health Delivery Project
Lay summary
Lung cancer is a major cause of death in New Zealand, disproportionately so for Maori and Pacific people. New models of lung cancer care based on analysing the genetic makeup of the lung cancer of each patient, and using that genetic information to select a personalised targeted therapy drug, has strong potential for improving patient outcomes. However, this new model of care brings many challenges for the New Zealand health system as new genetic tests and drug treatments will need to be introduced that are very expensive. The goal of this research is to improve healthcare for New Zealand lung cancer patients by identifying sustainable and equitable solutions to their needs for technology-dependent therapeutic interventions.