VA Precision Oncology Program (POP): Improving Cancer Outcomes for Veterans

As Dr. Matthew Rettig, chief of hematology-oncology at the VA Medical Center in Greater Los Angeles puts it, POP is focused on providing “the right treatment for the right patient at the right time.”

POP includes several specialized programs, including the Lung Precision Oncology Program (LPOP), the Precision Oncology Program for Cancer of the Prostate (POPCaP), and the Computer Vision and Machine Learning in Precision Oncology (CoMPL) program. Each of these initiatives addresses a different aspect of cancer care.

In addition to its work in genetics, POP has formed partnerships that further expand their research and the treatment options they make available to veterans. Collaboration with other organizations has increased the scope of the program.  It’s part of the VA’s broader efforts to use cutting-edge research findings to improve the quality of cancer care for veterans.

One of the best things about POP is its commitment to ensuring veterans get the best treatment possible based on the latest scientific and technological advancements. Ask your physician if you are eligible for a clinical trial or other programs through the VA’s POP.

Why was POP created?

POP was initiated to address the growing need for personalized cancer treatments. Recognizing that each cancer case is as unique as the individual it affects, the VA launched the program to make sure that the latest advancements in genetic profiling and molecular biology are available for veterans who need care care.

This program is not just about treating cancer more effectively; it’s about customizing treatments to each individual veteran.

How POP Works

One of POP’s core goals is understanding how genetics drives cancer’s behavior — that is, how cancer grows and spreads. When you enroll in the program, experts will sequence the DNA of your tumor to identify its specific mutations and alterations.

One of POP’s core goals is understanding how genetics drives cancer’s behavior — how the cancer grows and spreads.

When you enroll in the program, experts will collect a sample of your tumor, typically through a biopsy, and then analyze its DNA in a lab to understand the genetic changes that may be driving your cancer. Armed with this information, your care team can give you the most effective treatment designed specifically for you.

Taking such a personalized approach helps move away from the traditional one-size-fits-all treatment model. It allows for an individual approach tailored to each and every patient.

Precision Oncology Program for Cancer of the Prostate (POPCaP)

POPCaP is designed specifically for veterans with prostate cancer, the most common form of non-skin cancer in men. It uses advanced genetic testing to identify the unique characteristics of each veteran’s cancer, particularly those with advanced disease.

POPCaP then tailors treatment plans based on these genetic findings, aiming for more effective and personalized care. The program also provides veterans with access to cutting-edge clinical trials and new treatment options, helping their chances of successful treatment outcomes.

Lung Precision Oncology Program (LPOP)

The LPOP program serves patients with lung cancer, the most deadly cancer among veterans. It’s a vital initiative that aims to transform lung cancer care for veterans by tailoring treatments based on the specific genetic makeup of tumors.

At the heart of LPOP is a strong emphasis on early-stage lung cancer screening in high-risk veterans. Recognizing that early detection vastly improves treatment success and survival rates, the program encourages veterans to undergo screenings like low-dose CT scans.

For veterans already facing advanced lung cancer, LPOP provides essential genetic testing that leads to more highly personalized — and potentially more effective — treatment. The program also offers greater access to precision-oncology clinical trials for veterans with advanced lung cancer. These trials are gateways to innovative and potentially more beneficial treatments that are not yet widely available.

“Precision oncology is really something that we’re emphasizing and is a growing phenomenon within the VA where I think we are leaders in precision oncology of prostate cancer,” Rettig says.

Computer Vision and Machine Learning in Precision Oncology (CoMPL)

CoMPL began in 2021 as an integral part of POP.

Its work includes using computer vision and machine learning to identify critical information from medical images. Additionally, it actively develops companion diagnostic tools for risk assessment. These tools aim to predict both the response to therapy and the need for more or less aggressive treatment in various cancers like prostate, lung, and brain cancer.

POP’s impact on veteran care

POP at the VA has had a significant and wide-ranging impact on the care of veterans with cancer.

• Personalized Treatment: By analyzing the genetic characteristics of each veteran’s cancer, the program creates more precise treatment plans. This ensures that veterans  receive the most effective therapies for their unique situation based on the latest genetic and molecular research.
• Advanced Research and Clinical Trials: POP provides veterans with access to the latest cancer research and treatment. Through participation in clinical trials, veterans have the opportunity to try new and innovative therapies before they are widely available.
• Enhanced Diagnostic Accuracy: Improved diagnostic tools and techniques mean that veterans are getting the right treatment sooner.

With its comprehensive approach and specialized initiatives POP sets a high standard of cancer care for veterans. As the program continues to evolve, it promises to keep the VA at the forefront of cancer treatment and research.

“Precision oncology is something that you can ask your treating physician about,” Rettig says. “For the most part, much of precision oncology can be delivered anywhere because much of it at least is based upon known principles.”

If you think a POP program might help you, talk to your healthcare provider.

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