Veterinary Oncology: Biology, Big Data and Precision Medicine

Despite significant advances in both our understanding and the treatment of cancer, the disease remains one of high mortality and morbidity in all species. Increase in survival times in human cancer have increased significantly in the past 25 years but most of these increases have been through small incremental changes. For some cancers, e.g. pancreatic cancer, survival times have not increased significantly in over 100 years. In veterinary oncology, we have seen major shifts in the management of cancer in companion animals. Increased availability of specialist centres, coupled with changing attitudes in owners and veterinarians, have meant that we have seen an improvements in veterinary cancer care borne from market pressures and increased awareness and understanding. In this review piece we will look at the changing face of cancer biology over the past 25 years, and consider the barriers to clinical progress in veterinary medicine. Finally, we will share an optimistic view of the future and the prospect for greater control over this devastating disease.