The prognosis of a cancer diagnosis is often daunting, and multiple myeloma patients particularly grapple with uncertainty given its unpredictable progression. Though it is the second most prevalent form of blood cancer in Europe, resulting in more than 35,000 diagnoses in 2022, multiple myeloma remains relatively unknown. In the context of Ireland, it’s determined that about 380 individuals are diagnosed every year.
However, hope exists in the rising survival rates and enhanced quality of life for patients. According to Irish statistics, the average five-year net survival rate for patients diagnosed between 2014-2018 was 65%, marking a substantial 37% increase from those diagnosed between 1994-1998. This growth rate was the fastest as compared to other cancers, shining a spotlight on the transformative power of innovative medicines. More recently, with the advent of advanced therapies and growing understanding of disease mechanisms, periods of remission for multiple myeloma patients have seen a notable increase.
Yet, these innovative strides should not breed complacency. Even though treatment might usher in remission, relapses are common. As the recurrence of relapses and decreasing remission intervals continue, prognoses may worsen and therapy options narrow.
In order to augment and enrich patients’ lives, the need of the hour is the development of new treatments targeting unique aspects of the disease. Janssen is looking ahead, with a relentless pursuit of enhancement and a focus on what lies on the horizon.
Evolving treatments and regimentations are expanding survival rates and providing healthcare professionals the leverage to tailor treatments per patient requirements. The earlier approach of ‘one therapy at a time’ is becoming outdated. Current advancements such as immunotherapies (where cancer cells are targeted by the immune system) hold promise to widen treatment options for patients, regardless of their age or disease status.
The management of multiple myeloma has also benefited from technological advancements, from treatment delivery to the availability of new therapies that better patients’ lifestyle. These improvements reduce the time patients spend in healthcare facilities, empowering them to dedicate their time to what they value.
The ultimate objective, however, remains to cure the disease. By deploying appropriate medicines at the right time and ensuring their correct combination and sequencing, the ambition is to treat to cure. This goal is centered around partnerships with medical professionals, researchers, and patients alike, with a focus on foreseeing and catering to the needs of the multiple myeloma community.
The pioneering CARTITUDE-5 trial exemplifies our devotion to groundbreaking research in Ireland. This marks Ireland’s initial clinical study, administered at St James’s Hospital Dublin, of CAR-T cell therapy as a treatment for multiple myeloma, facilitated by Janssen. Probing into the potency of CAR T-cell treatment, it utilises the body’s own T-cells to destroy tumour cells by mounting the strength of antibody drugs to concurrently target two surface antigens. The trial aims to assess the effectiveness and safety of CAR-T as an initial therapy for newly diagnosed patients.
Over the past several years, Janssen Sciences Ireland has backed multiple Investigator Initiated Studies, led by Irish medical professionals and comprising preclinical and clinical research. The intention is to build upon scientific understanding and examine new treatment possibilities for multiple myeloma.
Continuous endeavours in research and innovation are anticipated to help blood cancer patients to enjoy more extended and healthier lives. An increasing number of patients are experiencing prolonged remission with significant enhancements in their quality of life compared to traditional treatment methods. The aspiration is that, if we continue to progress and expedite developments in this field, a larger number of patients will reach and exceed this milestone in future.
Sources are available if requested.