Excellence in oncology care (EIOC) consensus guidelines on the use of liquid biopsy and targeted therapy in early-stage and locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) for the Middle East and Indian subcontinent

ABSTRACT The Excellence in Oncology Care (EIOC) 2023 Congress, held in Dubai as a hybrid event, brought together oncologists from the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. Two panels, comprising 33 experts, developed the first region-specific consensus guidelines to address critical issues in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly focusing on the roles of liquid biopsy and targeted therapies in early-stage cancer. These guidelines, created through surveys and preparatory meetings, were presented and discussed at the congress, both in person and online. While tissue biopsies remain the gold standard, liquid biopsies are emerging as a promising, minimally invasive alternative, though they are hampered by a lack of standardization and logistical challenges in the region. Liquid biopsy supports follow-up by accessing…