Cancer is a systemic disease in more than one dimension, in terms of its evolutionary course, direct crosstalk with the microenvironment, and intricate communication with the macro-environment. This broad perspective encompasses our understanding of cancer’s systemic features, mapping out the path for tackling its complexity to bridge what we can learn and who we need to help.

Cancer biomarkers have transformed oncology, enabling treatments tailored to each tumor’s unique profile. This review highlights the field’s progress due to advancements in understanding cancer biology, testing methods, and understanding of the immune microenvironment to advance precision oncology for improved patient outcomes.