Pharmacotherapy in cancer

The course addresses the molecular processes that form the basis for the development of cancer. Central themes will be the transition from normal cell to cancer cell: malignant transformation: regulation of cell division and cell death, gradual accumulation of mutations in cancer cells, and the transition from premalignant tissue changes to invasive cancer. The course will focus on various drug treatment principles used in the treatment of cancer, with a focus on principles for individualized drug therapy. The relationship between effectiveness, costs and ethics in the use of drugs will also be discussed.

Knowledge

After completing the course, the student will be able to:

• describe the properties of cancer cells and important cellular mechanisms that form the basis for the formation of tumors.
• understand the principles of individualized drug therapy in cancer.
• explain the points of attack for biological drugs used in the treatment of cancer.
• show an understanding of priorities in the health care system, with emphasis on pharmacoeconomic and ethical perspectives.

Skills

After completing the course, the student will be able to:

• explain the role of drug therapy in the treatment of different types of cancer.
• be able to suggest drug choices based on genetic and molecular data in selected cancers.
• describe treatment strategies and principles related to drug therapy at different stages of the cancer process.

Teaching is provided in the form of lectures and supervision as well as exercises/group work/presentations.