myeloma

New and emerging therapies

Next, Beth Faiman reviewed drugs in development: “We owe the wealth of approved myeloma treatments to clinical trials. Minority patients are less likely to participate in clinical trials, which can magnify disparities because clinical trials can provide early access to cutting-edge therapies.” She explained how misconceptions can cause myeloma patients to hesitate about participating in clinical trials. For example, some patients worry that if they participate in a clinical trial, they could receive a placebo and not active treatment. While it is true that phase III clinical trials involve randomization of patients, all patients receive active therapy: either a standard-of-care regimen or the new proposed regimen. “By highlighting the latest research, we aim to empower oncology nurses to engage and educate each patient and their care partners, to reduce disparities, and to enhance shared decision-making.”

The learning objectives of the symposia were:

 Discuss new and emerging treatment regimens for patients with newly diagnosed or relapsed myeloma, including appropriate patient management and patient education.

 Identify healthcare disparities faced by myeloma patients who are part of underrepresented groups, and implement strategies to overcome these disparities.

 Describe strategies to support the patient’s input in therapeutic decisions through shared decision-making.