Watson Health
Revolutionizing Cancer Care: Watson for Genomics
October 9, 2016 | Written by: Stephen J Harvey
Categorized: Watson Health
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Tonight on the CBS ’60 Minutes’ news program more than 12 million viewers saw the power of artificial intelligence and cognitive computing to help revolutionize cancer care. What began in IBM’s labs with some of the world’s most talented researchers and engineers is now a commercial technology – Watson – that has been put to work by some of the world’s top cancer institutes to help clinicians translate DNA data into precision treatment options.
IBM Watson Health VP, Steve Harvey, talks with Dr. Norman Sharpless at the University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.
At IBM we are so very proud of the progress we’ve made to share Watson for Genomics in the field and the people who worked together to get it to where it is today. From our work with UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center and more than a dozen other cancer institutes, many now have access to this technology.
Additionally, as part the National Cancer Moonshot initiative, the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) is using Watson for Genomics to help VA clinicians develop personalized treatment plans for 10,000 cancer patients.
Today, Watson is helping make the promise of precision medicine a reality. As someone who lost both of my parents to cancer, I know first-hand how important it is to offer our doctors the technology needed to deliver personalized care to patients based on currently available knowledge. I am thankful for the innovators at IBM and the partners who have helped validate Watson, for their teamwork in building out Watson for Genomic and contributing to its success.
Our mission to supply researchers, clinicians and patients with resources to further cancer care, as well as increase access to consistent care, is a reality today. IBM, in collaboration with our partners and clients, have built an incredibly strong foundation for Watson for Genomics that will continue to grow and address some of the biggest challenges in healthcare.
To learn more about how Watson for Genomics is advancing cancer care, visit IBM’s website and read a blog by Dr. Norman Sharpless from UNC.
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