Jim Omel, MD, a family physician and multiple myeloma survivor, has become a powerful advocate for patients worldwide, leveraging his unique perspective to improve clinical trials and raise awareness of the disease. Diagnosed in 1997, Omel's journey has transformed him into an invaluable resource for both patients and researchers.
Contribution to the DETERMINATION Study
Omel's contributions were particularly significant in the landmark DETERMINATION study, led by Paul G. Richardson, MD, and Kenneth C. Anderson, MD, at Dana-Farber. This clinical trial investigated the benefits and risks of autologous stem cell transplants for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. The study enrolled 722 patients across the country, including a notably high percentage (18%) of African American participants.
"Jim’s contribution was invaluable," said Richardson. "His enthusiasm coupled with a keen intelligence, as well as true compassion for patients, directly impacted on the success of the trial, which in turn strengthened our ability to inform practice, and now next steps."
Insights into Treatment Disparities
The diverse patient population in the DETERMINATION study allowed for a subgroup analysis comparing the benefits of early versus later stem cell transplants in African American and white participants. The findings suggested that African American patients did not derive as much progression-free survival benefit from an early transplant coupled with high-dose melphalan, a chemotherapy drug. However, they appeared to benefit more from a less intensive approach using lenalidomide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (RVd).
"DETERMINATION has provided a unique platform to inform patients around choices in the newly diagnosed setting of transplant-eligible patients, as well as establishing a much more tailored approach to care where clearly one size doesn’t fit all," Richardson explained. "Achieving the highest African American participation in this setting to date was particularly important in identifying differences in outcome based on pathobiology and not just access to best care."
Early Detection and Advocacy
Omel's personal experience with multiple myeloma also drives his advocacy efforts. He initially dismissed his back pain, a common symptom, attributing it to physical strain. It wasn't until an MRI revealed broken vertebrae that he was diagnosed. Omel now emphasizes the importance of early detection through tests like serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) for patients with unexplained bone pain.
"I’ve since become committed to reminding doctors to perform tests like SPE and urine protein electrophoresis for patients exhibiting pain deep in their bones," Omel stated.
Omel has served on committees with the National Cancer Institute, International Myeloma Foundation, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and has written extensively on multiple myeloma to raise awareness and improve patient outcomes.
A Lasting Impact
"Jim has turned his own illness into hope and life for all patients," said Anderson. "His decades-long journey and heartfelt comments from a patient perspective have directly helped to design clinical trials, transform the treatment paradigm, and assure patient access to these advances."
Omel remains committed to helping others and mentoring new research advocates, ensuring that his impact on the multiple myeloma community will continue for years to come. "I hate myeloma, but it has given me the chance to help thousands of patients, both individually and collectively," Omel said.
