Weekly Spotlight - 26.09.24

Exploring Patient Advocacy, Research Innovations, and Digital Healthcare's Role in Transforming Treatment Outcomes

Author

Liam Ball
September 26, 2024

In The News

Jim Omel, MD, a former family physician, has transformed his personal battle with multiple myeloma into a global mission of advocacy and support. Diagnosed in 1997, Omel's profound understanding of this incurable blood cancer has made him an invaluable resource for patients, researchers, and physicians alike. His insights, drawn from his unique experiences as both a patient and a physician, have significantly contributed to landmark studies such as the DETERMINATION trial, which explored the benefits and risks of autologous stem cell transplants for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients.

Omel's involvement in the DETERMINATION study was pivotal. His enthusiasm, intelligence, and compassion directly impacted the trial's success, enrolling 722 patients across 56 cancer centres, including a significant number of African American participants. This diversity enabled crucial subgroup analyses, revealing that African American patients benefited more from a less intensive treatment approach compared to their white counterparts. Omel's advocacy was instrumental in achieving these insights, highlighting the importance of tailored treatment strategies.

Despite his own health challenges, Omel has remained dedicated to helping others. He has served on numerous committees, written extensively on multiple myeloma, and led support groups, providing invaluable perspectives to clinical trials and patient care. His journey, marked by resilience and compassion, has inspired many and transformed the treatment landscape for multiple myeloma.

Omel's legacy is one of hope and determination. As he continues to mentor new research advocates, his impact on the multiple myeloma community endures, ensuring that future patients receive the support and care they need. His story is a testament to the power of patient advocacy in advancing medical progress and improving lives.

Sanofi is advancing multiple myeloma research, focusing on immunotherapy and monoclonal antibodies targeting CD38. Despite progress, MM remains incurable, especially for older patients. Sanofi's dedication to innovation aims to improve long-term outcomes and address treatment challenges, offering hope for better future therapies.

Michael Riotto, a multiple myeloma survivor, shares his journey from diagnosis to recovery and advocacy. Diagnosed accidentally after a beach injury, he underwent a successful stem cell transplant in 2011. Now, he champions healthcare affordability and support for myeloma patients, attributing his wellness to a healthy lifestyle and strong community connections.

Mike Schulz, a multiple myeloma patient, is honoured with the MMRF Spirit of Hope Award for his dedication to finding a cure. Despite his diagnosis, he remains hopeful, inspired by the support of family and friends. Schulz urges participation in the 2024 Twin Cities 5K WalkRun to fund research.

Digital Healthcare Breakthroughs

The Government has announced a pilot for a digital NHS Health Check, set to begin in early 2025 in Norfolk, Medway, and Lambeth. This initiative will allow patients to complete health checks at home via the NHS App, with results automatically updated in their GP records. The digital check aims to complement the existing face-to-face program for adults aged 40 to 74.

Over 130,000 people will also access health checks at their workplaces. This program, which began on August 30, seeks to prevent diseases like stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and dementia. The Labour Government plans to deliver one million digital health checks in the first four years, emphasising prevention and easing NHS strain.

Digital transformation in primary care has significantly impacted patient management and engagement. Dr. Tom Micklewright highlights the benefits of asynchronous communication tools, such as SMS-based messaging and online consultations, which have revolutionised patient interactions. The NHS App, despite some initial issues, empowers patients by providing access to medical records and enabling prescription orders, fostering greater patient responsibility and preparedness.

Looking ahead, automation and data-driven approaches are expected to further enhance primary care efficiency. Automating routine tasks and leveraging population-level data dashboards can streamline operations and better address the needs of high-resource patients. However, challenges remain, including knowledge gaps and the need for improved information sharing and best practice adoption among PCNs.

Research

The CA057-003 trial tested a new drug combination for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma, showing promising results. Mezigdomide, tazemetostat, and dexamethasone achieved a 60% overall response rate with manageable side effects. This all-oral therapy offers hope for patients who have exhausted other treatments. Further trials are anticipated.

Dr. Holly Lee's review highlights the promise of bispecific antibodies in treating multiple myeloma, despite challenges like patient relapse and resistance. Her research aims to understand these mechanisms and improve therapies. Current bispecifics show high response rates, but further studies are needed to optimise their use and reduce side effects.

Dr. Holly Lee's review highlights the promise of bispecific antibodies in treating multiple myeloma, despite challenges like patient relapse and resistance. Her research aims to understand these mechanisms and improve therapies. Current bispecifics show high response rates, but further studies are needed to optimise their use and reduce side effects.

Medicare Part D changes in 2024 and 2025 will significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for blood cancer patients. Key updates include eliminating the 5% coinsurance, introducing a spending cap, and removing the coverage gap. These reforms aim to make life-saving medications more accessible and affordable.

Health Spotlight’s Multiple Myeloma is a Contentive publication in the Healthcare division