The ASH 2024 conference in San Diego brought together industry leaders who laid out their vision for the future of blood cancer treatment. Biopharma leaders emphasized the importance of not shying away from the word “cure” when discussing treatment strategies for blood cancers. With advancements in CAR-T therapy, bispecifics, antibody-drug conjugates, and other approaches, there is a shift towards treating patients with the goal of achieving a cure rather than managing the disease.
Regeneron’s Andres Sirulnik highlighted the potential of Orspono, a bispecific antibody, in treating newly diagnosed patients with follicular lymphoma. J&J’s Mark Wildgust shared data on Darzalex, an antibody drug that has shown significant benefits in reducing the risk of progression to multiple myeloma in patients with smoldering myeloma. AstraZeneca’s Susan Galbraith discussed the development of cancer drug cocktails for defined durations, catering to younger patients who may prefer shorter treatment regimens. GSK showcased the promising results of Blenrep, an antibody-drug conjugate for multiple myeloma.
In another presentation at the conference, research highlighted the transformative potential of bone marrow transplants for AML patients. However, access to this lifesaving treatment is limited for patients from disadvantaged communities due to socioeconomic barriers. While survival rates were not significantly linked to socioeconomic status among patients who received transplants, the study emphasized the need to address access barriers and explore strategies to ensure all patients have equal opportunities for treatment.
A study of 9/11 first responders revealed a higher risk of blood cancer due to toxic dust exposure from the World Trade Center attack. Researchers identified clonal hematopoiesis mutations as a potential treatment target for blood cancers, with IL1RAP emerging as a key receptor that could be targeted to prevent the development of certain blood cancers.
The sudden withdrawal of Pfizer’s sickle cell drug Oxbryta was met with criticism at the conference, with experts labeling the move as “tone deaf” and highlighting systemic flaws in treating sickle cell disease. The handling of the drug’s withdrawal was seen as prioritizing profits over patient safety, further eroding trust in the healthcare system’s treatment of historically neglected diseases like sickle cell.
Overall, the ASH 2024 conference showcased the progress and challenges in blood cancer treatment, emphasizing the importance of innovation, access to care, and patient-centered approaches in the fight against these complex diseases.
