Author: Editor

An upcoming study is investigating a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). In this interview, Claire Harrison, MD, FRCP, FRCPath, from Guys and St Thomas Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, gives an overview of the TAMARIN study (ISRCTN65011803); a study supported by Bloodwises Trials Acceleration Programme (TAP), investigating the effects of the anti-estrogen therapy tamoxifen on JAK/CALR mutant allele burden and disease course in patients with MPNs. Prof. Harrison highlights the rationale and design of this upcoming study. This video was recorded at the 2018 British Society for Hematology (BSH) Annual Scientific Meeting in Liverpool,…

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This is an exciting time for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), with new treatments on the horizon. Here, Claire Harrison, MD, FRCP, FRCPath, from Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, gives an overview of the session she chaired on individualizing care for patients with CML and MPNs at the 2018 British Society for Hematology (BSH) Annual Scientific Meeting in Liverpool, UK. Prof. Harrison touches upon the program, which was designed with an overlap for the two conditions in mind, addressing several of the session speakers, including Adam Mead, who spoke on stem cell dynamics…

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Consent for transplant, from both the patient and healthcare professionals, is critical. In this interview, Angela Leather from the Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, recollects a case that places emphasis on consent and full disclosure in patient transplants. Speaking from the 2018 European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) Annual Meeting in Lisbon, Portugal, Angela emphasizes that incidences such as this provide opportunities to learn and refine protocols.

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Post-transplant complications are an important issue to consider and must be managed appropriately. Here, Angela Leather from the Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, talks about the problems with unseen graft versus host disease (GvHD) and sexual health in women. She highlights the importance of identifying post-transplant complications in women early, particularly in the case of GvHD, and encourages both patients and healthcare professionals to be open about talking about this. This video was recorded at the 2018 European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) Annual Meeting in Lisbon, Portugal.

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CAR T-cell agents, as a breakthrough therapy, have their challenges. Here, Rose Ellard from Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, outlines the importance of formal training in managing the side effects of CAR T-cell therapy. She also highlights the need for networking between healthcare professionals on the frontline in an area that is still being learned about. This video was recorded at the 2018 European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) Annual Meeting in Lisbon, Portugal.

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CAR T-cell therapy is a new and exciting advancement for the treatment of hematological cancers. In this interview, Rose Ellard from Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, talks about the breakthrough clinical trials for CAR T-cell agents currently being held in the UK, and the management of potential side effects. Cytokine release syndrome, for example, requires prompt recognition of the symptoms and management with specialist care. This video was recorded at the 2018 European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) Annual Meeting in Lisbon, Portugal.

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Christopher G. Wood, M.D., F.A.C.S. Professor, Department of Urology, Division of Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX chairs an esteem panel to discuss challenging renal cases at the International Kidney Cancer symposium 2018. Viktor Grunwald, Camillo Porta, Seva Matveev, Karim Bensalah

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Co-chair Dr. John P. Leonard summarizing the key take-home points presented during the Lymphoma session at this years Great Debates & Updates in Hematologic Malignancies conference. Earn CME Credit for this activity: http://elc.imedex.com/ELC/Specialty-Search.aspx?search=Hema © 2018 Imedex, LLC.

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Guest faculty Dr. Paul G. Richardson summarizes the key take-home points from the presentations comprising this years Plasma Cell Disorders session at the 2018 Great Debates & Updates in Hematologic Malignancies conference. Earn CME Credit for this activity: http://elc.imedex.com/ELC/Specialty-Search.aspx?search=Hema © 2018 Imedex, LLC.

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Alain Ravaud MD, PhD, of Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux, Bordeaux CHU Bordeaux accepts the P.H.M. DeMulder Memorial Lecture with a presentation entitled “Have we done a good enough job in influencing our regional or national oncology communities regarding RCC care? Probably not.” at the 13th European International Kidney Cancer Symposium 2018 in Prague.

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The British Society for Haematology (BSH) aims to improve patient care and outcomes in the hematology field. In this interview, 2017/18 BSH President Charles Craddock, CBE, FRCP (UK), FRCPath, DPhil, of the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK, discusses how the BSH is accelerating improvements in hematology. Prof. Craddock highlights interactions with clinical trials groups, as well as the importance of genomics and big data. This video was recorded at the 2018 BSH Annual Scientific Meeting in Liverpool, UK.

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IMPACT, the UKs first large-scale clinical trials platform for patients receiving a stem cell transplant, is launching in 2018. Here, Charles Craddock, CBE, FRCP (UK), FRCPath, DPhil, of the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK, discusses plans for the first year of IMPACT, with four prospective randomized trials set to be launched. Prof. Craddock covers the trials and rationale behind them, including COSI and PRO-DLI, which is the first randomized study investigating the benefit of donor lymphocytic infusions for the prevention of relapse post-HSCT in patients with high-risk myeloid malignancy. This video was recorded at the 2018 British Society for Hematology…

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Recent KEYNOTE study data has led to confusion over the significance of PD-L1 as a predictive biomarker of immunotherapy response. The lack of a standardized assay for PD-L1 also makes things trickier. In this interview, Fred Hirsch, MD, PhD, CEO of the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), from the University of Colorado, Denver, CO, discusses the standardization of PD-L1 assays. Dr Hirsch gives an update on the results of the Blueprint PD-L1 IHC Assay Comparison Project, which is investigating how comparable the results of the five main PD-L1 assays are. This video was recorded at the…

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The results of KEYNOTE-024 (NCT02142738) indicated that high PD-L1 expression predicted a benefit from pembrolizumab vs. chemotherapy. However, new data suggests that the picture is less clear than this. This new data and what messages can be taken from it are explained here by Fred Hirsch, MD, PhD, CEO of the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), from the University of Colorado, Denver, CO. Dr Hirsch highlights results observed in low PD-L1 expression conditions from KEYNOTE-042 (NCT02220894), which investigated pembrolizumab monotherapy vs. chemo, as well as data from KEYNOTE-189 (NCT02578680) where PD-L1 expression was not used for…

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Radical thoracic radiotherapy is a mainstay in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); however, the effect of cardiac doses on survival is becoming increasingly important, as highlighted by the RTOG 0617 study (NCT00533949). Here, Matthew Hatton, MBChB, MRCP, FRCP, FRCR, of the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK, discusses his groups exciting work investigating the effect of different cardiac doses of radiotherapy on patient outcomes. Dr Hatton highlights the significance of this work, being different compared with reported study outcomes, due to the use of accelerated and sequential radiotherapy regimens in the real-world setting. He then…

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The anti-PD-1 antibody therapy pembrolizumab is an exciting new agent for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, Martin Reck, MD, PhD, of the Lung Clinic Grosshansdorf, Grosshansdorf, Germany, discusses the use of pembrolizumab monotherapy in the first-line setting, referencing KEYNOTE-024 data (NCT02142738). Prof. Reck then goes on to discuss the next steps for investigating pembrolizumab combination therapy, such as that being explored in the Phase III KEYNOTE-189 trial (NCT02578680). This video was recorded at the European Lung Cancer Congress (ELCC) 2018, held in Geneva, Switzerland.

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The IMpower150 trial (NCT02366143) was the first to explore chemotherapy, immunotherapy with atezolizumab and anti-angiogenic therapy with bevacizumab for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this interview, Martin Reck, MD, PhD, of the Lung Clinic Grosshansdorf, Grosshansdorf, Germany, discusses the aims and design of the study, in addition to an exciting data update pre-ASCO. Prof. Heck highlights the broad spectrum of this study, meaning that patients with different types of mutations, including EGFR and ALK, were eligible. This video was recorded at the European Lung Cancer Congress (ELCC) 2018, held in Geneva, Switzerland.

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Immunotherapeutic agents are increasingly becoming incorporated into clinical practice; however, there is still much to learn, including their optimal combinations, sequencing and usage. In this interview, Martin Reck, MD, PhD, of the Lung Clinic Grosshansdorf, Grosshansdorf, Germany, discusses whether we can improve the efficacy of immunotherapy in lung cancer patients who have not been selected for their high PD-L1 expression. This video was recorded at the European Lung Cancer Congress (ELCC) 2018, held in Geneva, Switzerland.

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The Phase III KEYNOTE-024 trial (NCT02142738) compared pembrolizumab monotherapy with standard platinum-based chemotherapy for previously untreated metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with high PD-L1 expression. Speaking from the European Lung Cancer Congress (ELCC) 2018, held in Geneva, Switzerland, Martin Reck, MD, PhD, of the Lung Clinic Grosshansdorf, Grosshansdorf, Germany, gives an overview of the trial and an update on the progression-free survival results observed in the trial.

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The European Lung Cancer Congress (ELCC) 2018, in Geneva, Switzerland, presented an array of exciting lung cancer trial updates. Speaking from the meeting, Marina Garassino, MD, of the Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy, discusses the Phase III ECHO-306/KEYNOTE-715 study (NCT03322566). This promising trial comprises three arms and is investigating pembrolizumab and epacadostat in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Dr Garassino discusses the design, underlying rationale and primary endpoints of the study.

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Anti-angiogenic therapy has proven to be useful tool for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in the frontline setting. Excitingly, there are now anti-angiogenic agents that can be used in the second-line setting, including ramucirumab and nintedanib, as described here by Marina Garassino, MD, of the Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy. This video was recorded at the European Lung Cancer Congress (ELCC) 2018, held in Geneva, Switzerland.

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The treatment of brain metastases in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a challenge, as the majority of the drugs used to treat NSCLC exhibit low penetrance to the brain. Here, Marina Garassino, MD, of the Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy, discusses the next-generation EGFR and ALK inhibitors that can be used in cases of CNS involvement. This video was recorded at the European Lung Cancer Congress (ELCC) 2018, held in Geneva, Switzerland.

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Due to constraints within the NHS treatment pathway, patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) who are characterized as having high-risk (HR) disease face many challenges in receiving intensive treatment. Described as a novelty, the Myeloma UK (MUK) Nine b: OPTIMUM Treatment Protocol (NCT03188172) is the first UK trial to offer precision medicine for MM patients with HR disease. Here, Martin Kaiser, MD, of The Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, explains the rationale behind the MUK Nine b trial and discusses the use of genetic markers as tools to identify patients who have HR disease. With the…

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Despite the controversy surrounding the design of the Tackling EArly Morbidity and Mortality in Myeloma (TEAMM) trial (ISRCTN51731976), a Phase III randomized study that assessed the benefit of antibiotic prophylaxis and its effect on healthcare-associated infections in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), follow-up results have shown that patients do benefit from the therapy. Here, Martin Kaiser, MD, of The Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, shares his thoughts on the trial, which was presented at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) 2017 Annual Meeting and Exposition in Atlanta, GA.

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In 2016, 250 patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (MM) were enrolled onto the Myeloma UK (MUK) Seven trial (NCT02406222); a randomized Phase II study that investigated whether the addition of cyclophosphamide to pomalidomide and dexamethasone improved progression-free survival (PFS). Speaking at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) 2017 Annual Meeting and Exposition in Atlanta, GA, Martin Kaiser, MD, of The Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, discusses the systematic approach of the MUK Seven trial and shares his hopes of discovering what factors drive disease relapse.

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An exciting update on the CASTOR trial was presented at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) 2017 Annual Meeting and Exposition, held in Atlanta, GA. Here, Katja Weisel, MD, of University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany, shares the results that were presented from the long-term follow-up of the CASTOR trial (NCT02136134), a comparative Phase III study that assessed the effects of administering daratumumab combined with bortezomib and dexamethasone, compared with bortezomib and dexamethasone alone, in patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (MM).

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Is the addition of cyclophosphamide to pomalidomide (Pom) and dexamethasone (Dex) treatment more effective at inducing a deeper and more durable remission for patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (MM) compared to Pom and Dex alone? Speaking from the American Society of Hematology (ASH) 2017 Annual Meeting and Exposition, held in Atlanta, GA, Katja Weisel, MD, of University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany, discusses the exciting results from the GMMG PERSPECTIVE trial (NCT02046915), which investigated this question.

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With the recent revolution of drugs for the treatment of lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), what lessons can be learned? Here, speaking at the 2018 Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference in Denver, CO, Ross Camidge, MD, PhD, of University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, provides a brief overview of his presentation from the John G. Kuhn Keynote Lecture, ”There will be drugs”: lessons from lung cancers therapeutic oil boom.

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Could being proactive, by treating lung cancer patients with next-generation drugs, help reduce the risk of acquired resistance? In this interesting interview, Ross Camidge, MD, PhD, of University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, shares his thoughts on this matter, explaining the importance of understanding the biology of lung cancer and being able to predict how the cancer will behave in the future. Dr Camidge also discusses the use of osimertinib and what could be considered when deciding on the use of this drug. This interview was recorded at the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO.

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There are now four FDA approvals that have molecular-specific licenses for lung cancer, these include ALK rearrangements, EGFR mutations, BRAF V600E mutations and ROS1 rearrangements. Now, speaking at the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO, Ross Camidge, MD, PhD, of University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, discusses the abnormalities that do not have FDA-approved targted drugs and raises the interesting question of who is actually benefitting from the treatment options.

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How do you decide on which drug to use when treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients in a second-line setting? Here, speaking at the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO, Ross Camidge, MD, PhD, of University of Colorado, Aurora, CO addresses the question of how to choose between nivolumab, pembrolizumab and atezolizumab for the treatment of NSCLC.

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Recently, due to the revolution of immunotherapy in the treatment of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC), more drugs are being licensed to treat patients in the second-line setting. Although overall survival in these patients has been shown to increase, the same can not be said for the rate of progression-free survival. Here, Ross Camidge, MD, PhD, of University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, discusses the importance of carefully monitoring these patients during chemotherapy. This interview was recorded at the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO.

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In the transplant setting, nurses are a vital component of patient care. Here, Michelle Kenyon, Vice Chair of the European Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) Nurses Group, a Clinical Nurse Specialist from King’s College Hospital, London, UK, highlights the utility of the EBMT Annual Meeting for Hematology Nurses, including a scientific programme and poster session specifically for the nursing field, as well as networking and collaboration opportunities. She also tells us her highlights from the meeting, covering new treatments and practices to improve the quality of patient care. This video was recorded at the EBMT 2018 Annual Meeting, held in…

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An exciting new resource is available for nurses; The European Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) Textbook for Nurses. In this interview, Michelle Kenyon, Vice Chair of the EBMT Nurses Group, a Clinical Nurse Specialist from King’s College Hospital, London, UK, gives us an overview of this resource. Michelle explains how this open-access e-book is the first book specifically written for nurses with an interest in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and highlights the comprehensive coverage offered. This is not the end for this project; she also provides an insight into the future plans to update the e-book and expand its reach.…

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Dr. Luis Raez, MD FACP FCCP, Chief of Hematology/Oncology and Medical Director at Memorial Cancer Institute, and Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Florida International University again joined GRACE to discuss updates to the basics of lung cancer. In this (audio only, Spanish language) webcast for the Spanish lung cancer video library, Dr. Raez discusses combinations of first-line treatment, immunotherapy agents together. Please visit our forums at http://cancergrace.org/forum/q-and-a-…, and scroll to the bottom of the page to ask a question!

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Dr. Luis Raez, MD FACP FCCP, Chief of Hematology/Oncology and Medical Director at Memorial Cancer Institute, and Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Florida International University again joined GRACE to discuss updates to the basics of lung cancer. In this (audio only, spanish language) webcast for the Spanish lung cancer video library, Dr. Raez discusses combinations of first-line treatment, immunotherapy with chemotherapy. Please visit our forums at http://cancergrace.org/forum/q-and-a-…, and scroll to the bottom of the page to ask a question!

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In this presentation from the Immunotherapy Session at the 2018 Great Debates & Updates in Gastrointestinal Malignancies, Drs. Axel Grothey, Tanios S. Bekaii-Saab, Scott Kopetz, and Neil Segal examine a series of challenging clinical cases to elucidate scenarios in which immunotherapeutic agents should be utilized in the treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies. Earn CME Credit for this activity: http://elc.imedex.com/ELC/Specialty-Search.aspx?search=7292 © 2018 Imedex, LLC.

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Great Debates & Updates in GI Malignancies 2018 provided expert review and guidance for the evaluation and interpretation of recent clinical data, assessment of optimal approaches for management of non-colorectal cancers, and facilitate the safe and appropriate integration of new therapies into everyday clinical practice. This activity features the conference co-chairs, Drs. Axel Grothey and David H. Ilson, discussing the key take-home messages from the second day of the conference, which focused on non-colorectal GI cancers. Earn CME Credit for this activity: http://elc.imedex.com/ELC/Specialty-Search.aspx?search=7290 © 2018 Imedex, LLC.

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Great Debates & Updates in GI Malignancies 2018 provided attendees with an enhanced ability to evaluate and successfully integrate optimal diagnostic, therapeutic and management strategies into everyday clinical practice. This activity features the conference co-chairs, Drs. Axel Grothey and David H. Ilson, discussing the key take-home messages from the first day of the conference, which focused on colorectal cancer. Earn CME Credit for this activity: http://elc.imedex.com/ELC/Specialty-Search.aspx?search=COLORECTAL © 2018 Imedex, LLC.

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In this presentation from the Immunotherapy Session at the 2018 Great Debates & Updates in Gastrointestinal Malignancies, Dr. Neil Segal discusses best practices for the integration of immunotherapy agents into current treatment algorithms for gastrointestinal malignancies. Earn CME Credit for this activity: http://elc.imedex.com/ELC/Specialty-Search.aspx?search=7292 © 2018 Imedex, LLC.

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In this presentation from the Immunotherapy Session at the 2018 Great Debates & Updates in Gastrointestinal Malignancies, Dr. Tanios S. Bekaii-Saab provides an overview of recent advances in immunotherapy for the treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies. Earn CME Credit for this activity: http://elc.imedex.com/ELC/Specialty-Search.aspx?search=7292 © 2018 Imedex, LLC.

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In Part 3 of the ‘Optimizing Dosing Strategy for Late-Line Therapies in mCRC’ roundtable discussion, Drs. Grothey, Bekaii-Saab, and Van Cutsem discuss the results of the REVERCE trial on therapeutic sequencing and expound upon emerging therapies for the refractory mCRC population, including HER-targeted and immunotherapies. Earn CME Credit for this activity: http://elc.imedex.com/ELC/Specialty-Search.aspx?search=CRC © 2018 Imedex, LLC.

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In Part 2 of the ‘Optimizing Dosing Strategy for Late-Line Therapies in mCRC’ roundtable discussion, Drs. Grothey, Bekaii-Saab, and Van Cutsem discuss the implications of recently published data from the phase II ReDOS trial, which evaluated dosing strategies for regorafenib in refractory metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Earn CME Credit for this activity: http://elc.imedex.com/ELC/Specialty-Search.aspx?search=CRC © 2018 Imedex, LLC.

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To improve the efficacy of immunotherapy in patients with glioblastoma (GBM), the mechanisms behind the phenomenon of why bone marrow T-cell sequestration occurs in these patients needs to be understood. Here, Pakawat Chongsathidkiet, MD, of Duke University, Durham, NC, discusses the techniques being used to characterize the mechanism of action of this occurence in GBM, with the hopes of creating a strategy to reverse the effect of GBM on T-cells. This interview was recorded at the 2017 National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Conference, held in Liverpool, UK.

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Glioblastoma (GBM) is a common and aggressive cancer that starts within the brain. So far, patients with GBM who undergo immunotherapy are not responding well to the treatment and poor outcomes remain. Here, speaking at the 2017 National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Conference, held in Liverpool, UK, Pakawat Chongsathidkiet, MD, of Duke University, Durham, NC, explains a new phenomenon that may be responsible for the lack of responsiveness to immunotherapy in patients with GBM and his hopes of improving the efficacy of this treatment.

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Genetic testing is not always routinely available to breast and/or ovarian cancer patients, or those at high-risk of developing these malignancies; the question is, why? And how can these challenges be tackled? Speaking at the 2017 National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Conference, held in Liverpool, UK, Nazneen Rahman, CBE, FMedSci, of the Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK, explains the key challenges to availability. Prof. Rahman then discusses how these hurdles are being tackled and the benefits of these strategies.

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Due to advancements in genetic testing, women who have breast and/or ovarian cancer, or who are at high-risk of developing these cancers, are easier to identify. Genetic testing can also lead to the identification of any relatives who have mutations in the genes responsible for the development of breast and/or ovarian cancer. In this interview, Nazneen Rahman, CBE, FMedSci, of the Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK, discusses plans to make genetic testing for breast and ovarian cancer more accessible in clinics. This interview was held at the 2017 National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Conference, held in Liverpool, UK.

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The 2018 Annual Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Conference, held in Denver, CO, saw many thought-provoking sessions and exciting updates. Here, Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCOP, BCPS, of the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, provides an overview of his presentation on updates in urothelial carcinoma. Dr Hanna also highlights the main topics of discussion during the presentation.

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Here, Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCOP, BCPS, of the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, gives an insight into his experience of the 2018 Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO. Dr Hanna also offers an insightful perspective into the benefits of HOPA and expresses his excitement for what is to come for the oncology pharmacy community.

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Speaking from the 2018 Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO, Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCOP, BCPS, of the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, offers his recommendations, for colleagues in the field, on the treatment options available for muscle invasive and non-muscle invasive urothelial carcinoma. Depending on the type and severity of the disease, Dr Hannas recommendations include the use of chemotherapy, bladder preservation and immunotherapy.

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Following the success of a collaborative educational training event in India run by the European Blood and Marrow Transplantation Nurses Group (EBMT NG), there are hopes for further training by the participants. Speaking from the EBMT 2018 Annual Meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal, Meera Achrekar of Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India, explains the success of the project and highlights feedback from the participants.

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The future is looking bright for bladder cancer, with many clinical studies of new therapeutic options underway. Speaking from the 2018 Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO, Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCOP, BCPS, of the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, provides an exciting overview of current clinical trials and discusses the challenges of treating second-line metastatic urothelial cancer. Just some of the exciting new drugs discussed include ramucirumab, cabozantinib and tremelimumab.

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The European Blood and Marrow Transplantation Nurses Group (EBMT NG) started a collaborative educational training project in India, which is now to be expanded following its success. The project is introduced here by Aleksandra Babic, past President of the EBMT NG and current Chairperson of the NG Global Education Committee, from the Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland. Next, Meera Achrekar of Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India, explains the aims of the project, highlighting the importance of this initiative and her continued excitement moving forwards. This video was recorded at the EBMT 2018 Annual Meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal.

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New and exciting developments on urothelial cancer were presented at the 2018 Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO. In this detailed interview, Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCOP, BCPS of the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, discusses PD-L1 expression and covers the latest updates on immunotherapy options for metastatic urothelial carcinoma.

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The European Blood and Marrow Transplantation Nurses Group (EBMT NG) ran a successful educational training event in India. Here, Meera Achrekar of Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India, explains how she has been inspired by the EBMT NG. She passionately discusses the idea of setting up a similar group in India, highlighting the importance of a forum such as this. This video was recorded at the EBMT 2018 Annual Meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal.

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Following the success of a collaborative educational training event in India run by the European Blood and Marrow Transplantation Nurses Group (EBMT NG), the project was presented at the EBMT 2018 Annual Meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal, by Meera Achrekar of Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India. Speaking from the meeting, Meera expresses her thoughts about the conference, highlighting the utility of the nursing sessions at the meeting.

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This activity has been designed to inform oncologists who manage patients with mCRC how to safely and effectively incorporate dose optimization strategies and sequencing into current clinical algorithms, and features a roundtable discussion of renowned clinical experts, Drs. Axel Grothey, Eric Van Cutsem, and Tanios S. Bekaii-Saab, on the latest advances and insights from pivotal clinical trials. Earn CME Credit for this activity: http://elc.imedex.com/ELC/Specialty-Search.aspx?search=CRC © 2018 Imedex, LLC.

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Graft versus host disease (GvHD) remains to be one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in patients who have undergone bone marrow transplant. Here, Katie Gatwood, PharmD, BCOP, of Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, briefly discusses the challenges with current treatment options for GvHD and gives an update on newly approved drugs that can be used to effectively treat patients. This interview was recorded at the 2018 Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO.

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It is an exciting time in the field of graft versus host disease (GvHD) research, as new drugs for the treatment of this disease in post-transplant patients have been FDA approved or received breakthrough therapy designation. Such drugs include ruxolitinib and ibrutinib, and although these drugs have shown to be effective in treating patients with GvHD, there are still challenges that pharmacists must be aware of. Here, Katie Gatwood, PharmD, BCOP, of Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, explains the challenges that come with this therapy and the importance of pharmacist intervention when using ruxolitinib or ibrutinib for the treatment…

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At present, the standard frontline therapy of steroids for graft versus host disease (GvHD) has shown to be ineffective for many patients. Now, speaking from the 2018 Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO, Katie Gatwood, PharmD, BCOP, of Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, provides an interesting update on the use of ibrutinib or ruxolitinib for the treatment GvHD. Dr Gatwood gives an insight on current studies that are investigating the use of ruxolitinib for acute and chronic GvHD, with the hope of ruxolitinib becoming FDA approved in the future.

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At the British Thoracic Oncology Group (BTOG) Annual Conference 2018, held in Dublin, Ireland, we asked a range of experts what they thought the key unanswered question in lung cancer is currently. They were all in agreement that there are a range of issues to address, but each speaker had their own take on the question. Ranging from disease biology to early diagnosis and policy, see what the experts thought.

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A record number of delegates attended the British Thoracic Oncology Group (BTOG) Annual Conference 2018, held in Dublin, Ireland. Although exciting advancements in research and practice were presented, but the attendees emphasize that this is not the only reason that they attend the BTOG conference every year. For an expert insight into the meeting, hear from the presenters themselves. See you at BTOG 2019!

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Pharmacists play a valuable role in oncology practice. Here, R. Donald Harvey, PharmD, BCOP, FCCP, FHOPA, from the Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA, discusses how important it is for pharmacists to stay up to date with literature, to be able to interpret data and to implement this into their practise. Dr Harvey goes on to share the ways in which pharmacists can keep themselves well informed through online resources and groups like the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA). This interview was recorded at the 2018 HOPA Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO.

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R. Donald Harvey, PharmD, BCOP, FCCP, FHOPA, from the Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA, gives a pharmacists perspective on the challenges of using biomarkers in immunotherapy. Using PD-1 and PD-L1 as examples, Dr Harvey discusses the challenge in interpreting biomarker results to make clinical decisions and identify which patients will benefit from a given therapy., Dr Harvey shares insights from the audience discussions on the subject at the 2018 Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO.

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R. Donald Harvey, PharmD, BCOP, FCCP, FHOPA, from the Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA, discusses the importance of biomarkers in immunotherapy to improve the identification of good and poor responders. Focusing on the use of PD-1 and PD-L1 as biomarkers in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer, Dr Harvey shares insights from conversations and debates had during the 2018 Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO. Dr Harvey goes on to discuss microsatellite instability and its role in the treatment of colorectal cancer, suggesting how biomarkers can be better included in clinical trials moving forward.

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Year after year, the number of healthcare professionals that join the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) continues to increase. Speaking from the 2018 Annual HOPA Conference, held in Denver, CO, Susannah Koontz Webb, PharmD, BCOP, FHOPA, of the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association, shares an overview of the positive feedback received by HOPA members and the many benefits of HOPA membership.

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What can be expected from the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) in 2018/19? Here, Susannah Koontz Webb, PharmD, BCOP, FHOPA, 2017/18 President of HOPA, discusses exciting new developments that are expected to begin in the upcoming year for HOPA. From forming an oral oncolytic institute to talks on establishing HOPAs very own journal, Dr Koontz Webb provides an exciting insight into the initiatives and tools being explored to improve care for cancer patients and support Hematology/Oncology Pharmacists. This interview was recorded at the 2018 HOPA Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO.

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It was a very productive year for the 2017/18 governance of the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA). Here, Susannah Koontz Webb, PharmD, BCOP, FHOPA, President of HOPA, discusses the exciting areas of their strategic plan, including professional development, roles and responsibility of the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacist, current research and advocacy. Dr Koontz Webb also announces an exciting collaboration, with high hopes of offering medical education to both members of HOPA and non-members. More information about the strategic plan can be found here: http://www.hoparx.org/about/strategic-plan. This interview was recorded at the 2018 HOPA Annual Conference, held in Denver, CO.

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This year the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) held its 14th Annual Conference in Denver, CO, with a record-breaking number of attendees. Welcoming the delegates was the President of HOPA, Susannah Koontz Webb, PharmD, BCOP, FHOPA. Here, Dr Koontz Webb provides an interesting insight into the key themes of the 2018 conference, which included thought-provoking panel discussions and sessions. She also discusses future opportunities for HOPA members to become leaders in their profession and expresses her excitement for the expansion of HOPA and the engagement brought from newly introduced initiatives.

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Cutaneous graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) can be a long-term complication of stem cell transplantation that requires careful management. Speaking from the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) 2018 Annual Meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal, Jacqui Stringer, PhD, BSc, RGN, MIFPA, Chairperson of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) Nurses Group Research Committee, of the Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, passionately discusses the importance of the nurse in managing this condition.

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The European Cancer Patient Coalition (ECPC) is a large European cancer patients organization, comprising hundreds of patient groups from many different countries. Here, Jacqui Stringer, PhD, BSc, RGN, MIFPA, Chairperson of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) Nurses Group Research Committee, of the Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, discusses this dynamic group and explains the importance of patient input in clinical research. This video was recorded at the EBMT 2018 Annual Meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal.

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Specialist organizations, such as the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT), can provide a range of useful tools to support their members. In this interview, Jacqui Stringer, PhD, BSc, RGN, MIFPA, Chairperson of the EBMT Nurses Group Research Committee, of the Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, discusses the ways in which the EBMT Nurses Group can support its members. Dr Stringer highlights guidance and networking, alongside a range of other aspects, to support members in their careers and research. This video was recorded at the EBMT 2018 Annual Meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal.

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The European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation Nurses Group (EBMT NG) is committed to improving medical education worldwide, to advance healthcare knowledge and patient care internationally, not just in Europe. In this interview, John Murray, RGN, MSc, President of the EBMT NG, of the Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, discusses the importance of these efforts. He highlights the study day talks hosted at the EBMT Annual Meeting, which can be easily utilized by healthcare professionals to share knowledge with others in their medical practices. He references the talks given this year, under the theme from junior to…

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The European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation Nurses Group (EBMT NG) is a rich resource for nurses and allied healthcare professionals who work in transplantation and hematology. In this interview, John Murray, RGN, MSc, President of the EBMT NG, of the Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, discusses the numerous resources that the EBMT NG offer. With a new website launched, which contains posters, presentations, e-learning, GVHD and VOD apps, and more, this provides a central resource for nurses across Europe. He highlights how this can aid positive changes in clinical practice and patient care. This video was…

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The European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) held its 44th Annual Meeting in 2018, with delegates once again expressing the multitude of reasons that they attend each year. Speaking from the meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal, John Murray, RGN, MSc, President of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation Nurses Group (EBMT NG), of the Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, highlights the benefits of the EBMT meeting. Among the many reasons for attendance, he highlights the sharing of knowledge and chance to network with international colleagues, which will ultimately improve practice and patient care.

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Veno-occlusive disease (VOD) is a serious complication that can occur following stem cell transplantation, for which the appropriate management is essential. Here, John Murray, RGN, MSc, President of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation Nurses Group (EBMT NG), of the Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, discusses the VOD e-learning programme developed by the EBMT NG. Emphasizing the importance of managing VOD, he gives an overview of the tool, and explains how it provides CME credits and essential knowledge on the condition. The programme can be found here: www.ebmt.org/veno-occlusive-disease-vod-learning-programme. This video was recorded at the EBMT 2018…

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The European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation Nurses Group (EBMT NG), founded in 1985, is a well-established coalition that aims to promote excellence in the delivery of transplantation and hematology services by nurses and allied healthcare professionals. In this interview, John Murray, RGN, MSc, President of the EBMT NG, of the Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, discusses the EBMT NG awards and their expansion. He highlights the importance of recognizing nurses work, encouraging original ideas and the sharing of information. This video was recorded at the EBMT 2018 Annual Meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal.

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The European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) is committed to developing and advancing the care of patients. In this interview, Jacqui Stringer, PhD, BSc, RGN, MIFPA, Chairperson of the EBMT Nurses Group (NG) Research Committee, of the Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, eloquently discusses the importance of EBMT and the EBMT NG in improving patient care. This video was recorded at the EBMT 2018 Annual Meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal.

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Dr. Karen Reckamp, MD, MS, Co-Director of the Lung Cancer and Thoracic Oncology Program, Medical Director – Clinical Research Operations, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center in Duarte, California joined GRACE to discuss updates to our Lung Cancer Video Library. In this video, Dr. Reckamp discusses immunotherapy for previously treated patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

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Dr. Luis Raez, MD FACP FCCP, Chief of Hematology/Oncology and Medical Director at Memorial Cancer Institute, and Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Florida International University again joined GRACE to discuss updates to the basics of lung cancer. In this (audio only, Spanish language) webcast for the Spanish lung cancer video library, Dr. Raez discusses PDL1 as a biomarker for second-line treatment.

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Dr. Luis Raez, MD FACP FCCP, Chief of Hematology/Oncology and Medical Director at Memorial Cancer Institute, and Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Florida International University again joined GRACE to discuss updates to the basics of lung cancer. In this (audio only, Spanish language) webcast for the Spanish lung cancer video library, Dr. Raez discusses PDL1 as a biomarker for first line treatment.

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Presented by Dr. Luis E. Raez, MD, FACP, FCCP Chief of Hematology/Oncology and Medical Director of Memorial Cancer Institute (Miami, FL) Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University http://cancerGRACE.org/

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Presented by Aziz Nazha, MD. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is generally a hematologic malignancy of older adults, with approximately 60% of newly diagnosed AML patients being 60 or older. Older patients pose unique therapeutic challenges that have been largely unmet to date. This activity will review and discuss decision-making strategies outlining when and how to treat this patient population in your practice. In addition, Dr. Nazha will provide an overview of the current treatment paradigms available, as well as agents currently approved or under investigation which may have a potential role in the outcome of the older patient with AML.…

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