Cancer Care Advancements in 2024 and Beyond

As 2024 comes to a close,it is fascinating to look back and see the progress that has moved the oncology field forward this year. Among these advancements is the use of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), also known as a liquid biopsy, which is continually growing in its use to help guide cancer treatment plans.

The role of ctDNA testing has expanded in 2024.

ctDNA testing detects small fragments of cancer DNA in a patient’s bloodstream. It can be used to catch cancer before the disease becomes symptomatic or to monitor tumor growth in patients who already have a diagnosis. In the cover sto­ry of this issue of Oncology Nursing News, we explore the growing use of ctDNA and how it is not only guiding treatment decisions but also offering patients peace of mind.

“Now that I’m 5 years out and tumor-free, just knowing that my ctDNA is being tested annually and compared [with] my original baseline gives me peace of mind. I know any discrepancies in my testing will be caught at the earliest pos­sible juncture,” said Ashly Grafton, RN, MS-CRM, a clinical research nurse and cancer survivor. Grafton was diagnosed with stage II triple-negative breast cancer when she was 32 years old.

However, while additional testing may quell anxiety for some patients, it can in­crease fear in others, Grafton said. Not to mention that ctDNA testing may not be the right fit for every patient, as detecting ctDNA in certain malignancies—such as kidney, prostate, and thyroid cancers— tends to be more challenging.

“As more research comes out, the role of ctDNA will continue to evolve.” – Mike Hennessy Jr

As more research comes out, the role of ctDNA will continue to evolve.

Not only are the testing and monitor­ing mechanisms changing, but so are the cancer therapies themselves. Also in this issue of Oncology Nursing News, we feature highlights from groundbreak­ing research studies, such as DESTINY-Breast12 (NCT04739761). Findings from this phase 3b/4 trial showed that fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki (Enhertu) demonstrated durable overall and intracranial activity in patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer with active brain metastases.

Looking to 2025 and beyond, we know that advancements in cancer care will continue to unfold. We at Oncology Nurs­ing Newswill be there covering these ad­vancements every step of the way, giving nurses and advanced practice providers the news they need to provide the best possible care for patients.