Several significant events took place this week: the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in New York City, the FDA’s approval and CDC’s endorsement of updated COVID-19 vaccines targeting current variants, and notable new developments in myeloma research, including the FDA approval of motixafortide (Aphexda™) in combination with G-CSF for mobilizing stem cells in autologous stem cell transplants (ASCT) for myeloma patients.
9/11 Anniversary
As the nation marked the 22nd anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11 with solemn remembrance, the ongoing increase in cancer-related deaths among survivors continues to come to light.
FOX News Digital reported that, as of 2022, approximately 4,343 survivors and first responders have died due to toxic exposure—far exceeding the number of lives lost on the day of the attacks, according to the World Trade Center Health Program.
Since 9/11, significant efforts have been made to understand the long-term health effects of the toxic exposure that occurred in the aftermath. Led by Dr. David J. Prezant, the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) and World Trade Center (WTC) research team identified exposure to substances like asbestos, arsenic, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have been linked to an increased incidence of multiple myeloma among survivors and first responders.
WTC Health Program Findings
The WTC Health Program was established to cover medical expenses for those impacted by toxic exposure. A key aspect of this work was establishing correlations between exposure and conditions like multiple myeloma. A study conducted between 2013 and 2015 found that FDNY firefighters had an increased risk of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), a precursor to myeloma.
Specifically, the risk of light chain MGUS was three times higher. Researchers also discovered increased clonal hematopoiesis (CH) mutations among exposed individuals, which are linked to myeloma development.
A Myeloma Patient Success Story
Gerard Vanderberg, diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2010, worked across the street from the Twin Towers during 9/11. He recalls encountering a thick layer of white dust, which he later realized was asbestos. Nine years after the attacks, Gerard developed symptoms, and a tumor of plasma cells was found outside his lung. He attributes his illness to the toxic exposure from 9/11.
Gerard’s case highlights the importance of the WTC Health Program, which has covered the costs of his treatments, allowing him to focus on recovery. Despite challenges, Gerard remains resilient and continues to enjoy life with his wife, exploring places like Big Sky and Yellowstone National Park.
Updated COVID-19 Vaccines Coming Soon
In other news, the FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, designed to protect against current variants such as BA.2.86 and EG.5. The CDC has recommended the vaccines for individuals six months and older.
The vaccines are expected to be available in major pharmacies soon, and most Americans can receive them at no cost through health insurance or the CDC’s Bridge Access Program.
New Myeloma Research Insights
Several important studies were recently published in the field of myeloma research:
- NSD2 Study: Led by Prof. Wee Joo Chng at the National University of Singapore, a study revealed that histone methyltransferase NSD2 and its target, PKCα, play a role in the t(4;14) translocation, a key mutation in myeloma. This research could lead to new treatments and diagnostic tests for high-risk patients.
- Mezigdomide Study: A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlighted promising results from combining mezigdomide, a novel CELMoD, with dexamethasone in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. The overall response rate was 41%, showing potential for further research.
- Bee Glue Research: Researchers at the University of New Brunswick have discovered that a synthetic version of bee glue, or propolis, effectively inhibits the growth of myeloma cells, showing potential as a new treatment.
FDA Approval of Motixafortide
The FDA recently approved motixafortide (Aphexda™) in combination with G-CSF to mobilize stem cells for ASCT in myeloma patients. This approval provides a new, safe, and effective option for stem cell mobilization.
Cancer Moonshot Update
The White House recently announced several updates on the Cancer Moonshot initiative:
- An additional $240 million investment to accelerate cancer research and innovation.
- The launch of ARPANET-H, a health innovation network to speed up clinical trials.
- The introduction of the National Quality Leader (NQL) badge to recognize high-performing community health centers in cancer screenings.
The Bottom Line
This week brought a mix of solemn remembrance, exciting breakthroughs, and progress in the fight against myeloma. These advancements offer hope for patients and promise to improve outcomes in the future.
