Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) presented clinical research findings at the International Myeloma Society 21st Annual Meeting in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, showcasing the organization's expanding real-world evidence capabilities in blood cancer research. The research, conducted in partnership with Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC, focuses on community hematologists' perspectives on minimal residual disease testing among multiple myeloma patients.
Real-World Data Driving Clinical Insights
The presented abstract, titled "Perspectives of single-center community hematologists/oncologists on minimal residual disease testing among patients with multiple myeloma," represents FCS's strategic investment in leveraging real-world data from over one million patients. According to Dr. Lucio N. Gordan, FCS president and managing physician, "Our ability to tap real-world data derived from the treatment FCS provides to more than one million patients, combined with industry-leading data science, has a significant positive impact in our understanding of blood cancers and many other diseases."
The research team includes Amanda Warner, MS, BSN, RN, OCN, CAPM, FCS Director of Real-World Evidence, Dr. Gustavo Fonseca, FACP, FCS medical oncologist and hematologist, Trevor Heritage, PhD, FCS senior vice president and data officer, and Amy Ming, FCS senior director of informatics.
Multiple Myeloma Clinical Landscape
Multiple myeloma affects white plasma cells in the bone marrow, with cancerous tumors weakening the body's immune system, damaging bones, and leading to end-organ damage. The disease represents the second most common hematologic malignancy in the United States, with two-thirds of newly diagnosed patients being 65 years or older. Currently, there is no cure for multiple myeloma, and the median age at death is 75 years.
Dr. Gordan emphasized the ongoing progress in the field, stating, "Although there is no cure for multiple myeloma, we are making steady progress to enhance the quality of life and outcomes for patients with this disease."
Expanding Research Portfolio
FCS has formally organized efforts to capture real-world data combined with industry-leading data science to generate insights that optimize patient care and enhance the discovery and development of new therapies. The FCS Real-World Evidence team collaborates with internal and external partners to provide insights that improve treatment decisions and clinical outcomes based on evidence generated using real-world data.
Dr. Gustavo Fonseca noted, "With our robust clinical and research expertise and informatics capabilities, FCS has much to contribute to our clinical understanding and practical clinical applications across the spectrum of blood cancers and diseases. We look forward to joining with our colleagues to improve patient experience and outcomes."
The International Myeloma Society, comprising basic research scientists, clinical investigators, physicians, and other healthcare practitioners, works to promote research, clinical studies, and educational opportunities on all aspects of multiple myeloma worldwide.
