When it comes to medical treatments, using a one-size-fits-all approach can be dangerous. Every individual is unique, and a treatment option that works for one person may end up killing or seriously injuring another. To make sure that everyone is receiving the medical care that they deserve, the Food and Drug Administration is investing heavily in personalized medicine, and they explain their efforts in a new report.
There are numerous ways in which the FDA is attempting to improve the efficacy of medical devices and other products, thus improving overall health. The Center for Devices and Radiological Health, for instance, is putting together a database of virtual patients that medical professionals would be able to use to determine the best course of action for a given individual. The agency is also attempting to improve clinical trials by targeting certain sections of the population, gauging how each would respond to a given medication or device.
Genetics also play a role. The FDA hopes to identify those genetic markers that could put a person more at risk of suffering side effects to vaccines and drugs. They are also analyzing how such factors could work in conjunction with lifestyle habits to further put a person at risk for things like cardiovascular issues.
The FDA notes that their personalization mission has already led to targeted cancer treatments and other improvements to care. For more information about these efforts and how they can improve device and drug safety, click the link above.