Dr. Joshua Lang from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Carbone Cancer Center discusses liquid biopsies, a revolutionary approach that uses simple blood samples to detect and monitor cancer, offering less invasive alternatives to traditional tissue biopsies.
• Liquid biopsies detect cancer cells or materials in blood, finding as little as one cancer cell among a billion blood cells
• These tests are especially useful for monitoring cancer after treatment, detecting genetic changes that cause resistance, and expanding access to advanced diagnostics
• Dr. Lang's research was inspired by his patients' needs, particularly understanding why cancers become resistant to treatments
• Certain cancers show promising results with liquid biopsies, including melanoma, bladder cancer, and colon cancer
• Community participation in research, with almost 1,500 patient volunteers at UW, has been crucial to advancing liquid biopsy technology
• Participating in research studies could dramatically speed up the approval of life-saving treatments – potentially saving tens of thousands of lives
• Modern research participation ensures patients maintain complete control over their samples and data
• Programs like REACH and WiscShare are expanding access to research opportunities in rural and underserved communities
If you're interested in learning more about liquid biopsies or participating in cancer research, contact the Carbone Cancer Center or visit the WiscShare website to explore opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking cancer research.