The rise of data standardisation in oncology with DigiONE
Oncology is undergoing a major digital transformation. One of the most significant advances in this field is data standardisation, a process that DigiONE, the European digital research network, has put in place to revolutionise cancer research and treatment.
Why is data standardisation crucial?
The complexity and diversity of oncology data present considerable challenges in terms of collection, analysis and comparison. Without a common standard, it is difficult for researchers and doctors to draw accurate conclusions, share their findings or apply treatments based on real, up-to-date evidence. This is where data standardisation comes in.
DigiONE has introduced the Minimal Essential Description of Cancer (MEDOC) standard to harmonise clinical and molecular data collected in major cancer centres in six European countries. This standard allows not only reliable comparison of results but also efficient data sharing, which is essential for accelerating progress in cancer treatment.
The role of OncoDNA
As a DigiONE partner, OncoDNA plays a role in the development of efficient data storage solutions for large-scale sequencing data. By extracting valuable insights from this data, OncoDNA is helping to advance precision medicine, delivering more personalised and effective treatments to patients.
Impact of standardisation on research and care
Standardisation also facilitates the search for Real-World Evidence (RWE), which is crucial for the continuous improvement of patient care. In addition, through the use of federated Artificial Intelligence and interoperable technologies, data remains secure while being analysable, thus respecting the confidentiality and security of patient information.
Conclusion
The standardisation of oncology data is not just a technical issue; it is a revolution in the way in which oncology research can be conducted and applied clinically. With initiatives such as DigiONE, the future of oncology research looks promising, with the prospect of substantially improving care and outcomes for cancer patients.
