Genetics to Redefine Precision Cancer Care

Ushering in a new era of precision oncology, VS Hospitals, a leading cancer care centre in Chennai, is launching HOPE, Holistic Oncology Program for Excellence, a first-of-its-kind framework that combines targeted treatment strategies with AI-powered nutrition support. In addition, the hospital is introducing a dedicated Department of Precision Oncology. Together, these initiatives aim to improve diagnosis, reduce treatment burdens, increase survival rates, and enhance the quality of life for patients and their families. Ms. Rohini Molleti, actress and social worker, launched the initiatives in the presence of Prof. Dr. S. Subramanian, Senior Medical Oncologist, and Founder Chairman and Managing Director, Dr. Nithya Sridharan, Associate Director & Senior Consultant - Medical Oncology, Dr. Vijay. G, Consultant Adult &Pediatric Medical Oncologist, Prof. Dr. S. Sundar, Director, Tumour, Revision Joint Replacement and Pelvic Acetabular Surgeon, Mr. Muthu Subramanian, Executive Directorand other senior staff of the hospital. The hospital has also signed an MoU with Tweak & Eat, a US-based health and wellness AI company, to provide its patients with real-time personalised meal plans, instant feedback on food choices, and continuous dietary adjustments during and after treatment. VS Hospitals is also running an exclusive Familial Cancer Screening Clinic that specialises in risk assessment. The clinic uses advanced tools such as the CanRisk model to evaluate inherited cancer susceptibility and conducts germline testing—a genetic test that looks for harmful mutations in a person’s DNA that can be passed from parent to child and increase the risk of developing certain cancers. In his comments, Prof. Dr. S. Subramanian said, “We strongly believe that cancer care should not be confined to surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation alone. The need of the hour is holistic, personalised, and compassionate care. Our HOPE model is built on the belief that healing is never a straight line. It requires medical accuracy, emotional strength, good nutrition, rehabilitation, and social support working in unison. Every patient who enters HOPE follows a seamless pathway where the oncologists lead diagnosis and treatment using genetic advancements, psychologists help manage fear and stress, physiotherapists restore strength, nutritionists supported by AI provide continuous guidance, and social workers and patient navigators ensure families never feel lost. It is a truly holistic program that redefines cancer care by caring for the body, mind, and spirit together.” Talking about the offerings of the Department of Precision Oncology, Dr. NithyaSridharan said, “The newly launched Department of Genetics will focus on advanced genomic testing for accurate tumour profiling, personalised drug selection, and better treatment outcomes. It will enable individuals at high or moderate risk to assess their future cancer risk through genetic testing, supporting early prevention and proactive health planning. By advancing molecular-guided oncology, we can use biomarkers and gene signatures to choose the right drug at the right dose for each patient. The department will also offer holistic genetic counselling for hereditary cancers, rare diseases, prenatal genetics, and high-risk families. With global-standard lab collaborations and standardised bioinformatics protocols, we ensure accurate, faster, and cost-effective testing. We will also pioneer pharmacogenomics to optimise cancer therapy by predicting drug responses and minimising side effects.” In his comments, Dr. Vijay G, Consultant - Adult and PediatricHemato Oncologist and Medical Oncologist, said, “It is time that we addressed one of the most overlooked aspects of cancer care, which is nutrition. Research shows that diet plays a critical role in survival, treatment compliance, and quality of life, yet many patients struggle with appetite loss, confusing advice, and poor adherence. We need to bridge this critical gap and ensuring that patients receive holistic, practical support throughout their journey.” Founded in 2003, by Dr. Subramanian, one of Chennai’s most pre-eminent oncologists, VS Hospitals has built a strong legacy of clinical excellence. Renowned as one of the best cancer hospitals in Chennai, it offers advanced, world-class treatment across a wide spectrum of cancers, including breast, lung, liver, kidney, colon, uterine, prostate, and blood cancers. In addition to oncology, VS Hospitals is also a trusted multispeciality centre, with dedicated expertise in orthopaedics, gastroenterology, emergency medicine, nephrology, and more, making it a comprehensive healthcare destination for patients.