The following is a summary of “UK consensus supporting effective introduction of novel treatments for multiple myeloma in the National Health Service,” published in the October 2024 issue of Hematology by Popat et al.
Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable blood cancer with limited treatment options. B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) provide an effective therapy for patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R).
Researchers conducted a retrospective study to analyze BsAbs for patients with R/R MM in the NHS.
They employed a modified Delphi methodology. In March 2023, they conducted a literature review on novel treatments for MM using the PubMed database. A steering group of 8 expert clinicians identified 5 main topics and 44 statements, developed into an online survey distributed to healthcare professionals in Levels 1, 2, and 3 hematology centers in the UK. Results were shared with the expert panel to reach conclusions, with a consensus threshold set at 75%.
The results showed that 60 responses were received from all 3 center levels, with representation from all targeted centers. Consensus was achieved in 42 statements (95%) across three areas: patient profile, initiation and step-up dosing, monitoring and ongoing care, and the role of the multidisciplinary team in optimal management. Consensus was not achieved for 2 statements. Due to the level of agreement and meeting stopping criteria, further Delphi rounds were not conducted.
The study concluded that the consensus provided a framework for effectively introducing novel treatments for MM in the NHS, informing a checklist for hematology services regarding BsAbs care.
Source: onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/jha2.1038
