Diagnosed with tongue cancer that returned, he found out there was a strong genetic component to it. His maternal grandfather most likely had a similar neck cancer, and genetic markers determined that a certain drug would work very effectively to treat him.
“In about 20% of people, it works so effectively it will eradicate the cancer, and that was true in my case,” said Perkins, who is the principal site investigator for the project. “So, it is personalized medicine that has actually led to remission.”
Personalized medicine, also known as precision medicine, uses information about a person’s genetic makeup, environment, and lifestyle to tailor healthcare to that individual.
Creating a healthier future for everyone is the ultimate goal of the All of Us project, which is seeking more participants during upcoming enrollment events this month geared toward USA employees and students.
All of Us will have a mobile unit available on USA's main campus at the Student Center parking lot during USA’s Week of Welcome activities. On Monday, Aug. 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., students, parents, faculty and staff will have an opportunity to learn more about the research program, meet the team, ask questions, and complete in-person enrollment.
Participants in the program receive free genetic testing and an opportunity to learn more about their health.
Funded by the National Institutes of Health, All of Us is an ambitious effort to gather health data from 1 million or more people living in the United States to accelerate research that may improve health. The program aims to reflect the diversity of the country and to include participants from groups that have been underrepresented in health research in the past.
To learn more about the All of Us Research Program, stop by the bus on campus or visit joinallofus.org.
