Abstract IA013: Using genetic ancestry in genomics of tumor evolution

Abstract

Abstract The burgeoning field of genomic science, particularly in the context of cancer research, has undergone a transformative shift with the incorporation of genetic ancestry in understanding tumor evolution. The work of Melissa B. Davis highlights this paradigm shift, revealing how biases within genomic data, primarily due to the underrepresentation of diverse ethnic groups, have historically influenced our understanding of cancer disparities. Davis's research emphasizes the critical importance of including diverse ethnic groups in genomic studies, not merely as a token inclusion but as a rigorous scientific necessity. Her research demonstrates that by integrating genetic ancestry into the study of tumor biology, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of cancer's evolution and behavior. This approach is instrumental in identifying unique genetic markers and pathways influenced by ancestry, which may contribute to differences in cancer incidence, progression, and treatment response among different populations. Davis's work thus represents a significant stride towards personalized medicine, where treatment strategies can be tailored not just to the individual's genetic makeup but also to their ancestral background. This shift in focus towards a more inclusive genomic science has the potential to bridge the gap in cancer care disparities. By acknowledging and addressing these disparities, research spearheaded by scientists like Davis paves the way for more equitable healthcare outcomes. The inclusion of genetic ancestry in the study of tumor evolution is more than a scientific advancement; it's a step towards justice and equity in healthcare, ensuring that all groups benefit equally from the advancements in cancer research and treatment. Citation Format: Melissa B. Davis. Using genetic ancestry in genomics of tumor evolution [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Translating Cancer Evolution and Data Science: The Next Frontier; 2023 Dec 3-6; Boston, Massachusetts. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(3 Suppl_2):Abstract nr IA013.