The Cancer and Research Center of Marche Region (Corm): A New Instrument to Offer Opportunities for Diagnosis and Treatment to Cancer Patients

ABSTRACT

Following the new health needs emerged during the covid pandemic, in June 2021, the Cancer and Research Center of Marches Region, CORM (www.corm-marche.it) was instituted at the Department of Oncology of the Academic Hospital Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona (IT) with the Italian Ministry of Health patronage. The CORM includes-The digital platform for telemedicine to offer the ability to admit de novo diagnosis of solid tumors, as well as provide second opinions and to promote continutiy of care between hospital and territory-The Molecular Tumor Board, a multidisciplinary board including clinicians, pathologists and biologists to recommend personalized therapy in the "Precision Medicine" era. High throughput genomic profiling tests may be indicated by MTB team foundation one cdx/liquid biopsy/ heme, 16 genes DNA panel and other panels that are relevant in different types of tumors, NTRK evaluation and PDL1 test. The molecular profiles are useful to indicate new treatment strategies, but also to understand the mechanism of resistance otherwise not justificable with a standard approach.-The Clinical Trial Unit which performs about 40 interventional trials/year and includes a phase 1 unit, certified by AIFA. Every year, 100 patients are enrolled in clinical trials, about 10/year in phase 1 trials.-The Regional Center of High Specialization in Oncological Genetics. In December 2004, the Regional Center of High Specialization in Oncological Genetics was instituted and we developed an increasing expertise in genetic counseling and tests for hereditary syndrome (hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome and Lynch syndrome). Last year, we conducted 3166 genetic counseling, consisting of collecting genetic information and drawing pedigree, making or validating diagnosis, communicating clinical and genetic information and supporting the family to reach a decision and take appropriate actions. From January 2022, we activate the telemedicine platform also for genetic counseling to select patients who deserve genetic testing and come from distant territories. We aim to create a technological network between the oncology departments and general practitioners, patient associations and all the other specialists to guarantee the continuity of care and to overcome the disparities in oncological health services, simplifying cancer clinical management.