My First ASH Conference: Expectations Exceeded
This was my first ASH Conference, and my expectations were exceeded.
The volume of oral and poster abstracts was overwhelming. To get through just the multiple myeloma (MM) information presented would have taken more than the three days that I was in attendance. An incredible amount of work has been done in preparation for this conference.
Many of the top doctors in the world either presented or sat through the abstracts and asked questions. The commitment to learning and collaboration was on full display throughout the conference.
The number of treatments approved and now in use has accelerated over the previous several years, and this year was no exception. Moving newer therapies to earlier lines is a big theme, with Datatumamab and Teclistamab taking center stage.
I am not going to highlight or summarize treatments. More qualified people are already hosting events where the information is readily available. For many of us with MM, this ASH was great. Better treatments are available, and more are on the way.
Not so fast…
Infections are the leading cause of mortality in patients with MM, occurring in 22 to 45 percent of patients. This statement supports the case for IVRT in one of the presentations. In another presentation, the speaker stated fifty percent of patients do not make it to the following line of therapy for various reasons. I have repeatedly heard this from doctors since being diagnosed in 2020.
This information is glaring and alarming. As we move into the era of CAR T and Bi-specifics used in earlier lines, we should assume infections will rise. More patients will learn about and require IVRT much earlier than ever before. Even without new novel therapies, MM patients need to be proactive in seeking help earlier if they suspect they are sick.
If you are not feeling well, call your doctor. Over my four years of living with MM, I’ve never had a nurse tell me I should have waited to call when I did not feel well, although I have heard a few times I should have called earlier.
I am grateful for the ongoing work done by doctors and researchers to develop better treatments and, one day, a cure for MM. Until then, I hope we all get to the subsequent line of therapy if and when it is needed.
Rob Salmon
