From early diagnosis to managing difficult-to-treat relapsing disease, thought leaders covered a wide array of topics, offering new insights and innovative suggestions to enhance outcomes.
The iStopMM Project
Day 1 kicked off with an update on the revolutionary iStopMM (Iceland Screens, Treats, or Prevents Multiple Myeloma) Project. A key goal of this project is determining whether screening for MGUS (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance) can be broadly recommended. New observations suggest that early detection through screening may result in fewer CRAB symptoms and a reduced need for extensive tests and treatments, making screening beneficial both for patients and healthcare systems. Another key finding links MGUS with rising obesity rates, offering a new avenue for prevention.
Rethinking High-Risk Smoldering Multiple Myeloma (HR SMM)
New criteria and a Dynamic Model for high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma (HR SMM) were introduced, demonstrating that monitoring changes at 6 months can better predict the progression to active myeloma. This model will guide the decision-making process regarding whether to use gentler preventive measures or more aggressive curative approaches.
Global Access to Care
A significant focus this year was on the rising costs of novel therapies and the stark global inequality in access to them. Many patients worldwide lack access to standard-of-care treatments in both the frontline and relapsed settings. Despite promising results with therapies like quadruplets (Dara or Isa-VRd), barriers to access remain a major challenge.
Immune Therapies
Immune therapies, including CAR T cells and bispecifics, dominated discussions, with nearly 100% response rates in some cases. However, the potential for serious toxicities like infections, CRS, and neurotoxicities were highlighted, emphasizing the need for careful dosing, supportive care, and real-world guidance.
ODAC Unanimous Vote for MRD
The ODAC’s unanimous (12-0) vote approving minimal residual disease (MRD) as an early endpoint in myeloma clinical trials sparked significant interest. This development opens the door for incorporating MRD testing into ongoing and future trials, raising the bar for new agents as they progress through the approval process.
The 2024 IMWG Summit Awards Ceremony
Day 1 concluded with the annual IMWG Awards Ceremony. Drs. Francesca Gay and Shaji K. Kumar were honored for their outstanding achievements, and the evening was brought to life with a musical performance by The Myeloma Cells.
Working Committees
The final day saw active discussions from the working committees, including the new Quality of Life (QoL) Committee. The focus on QoL is seen as a crucial advancement for patient care.
The 2024 IMWG Summit in Madrid was a resounding success, with a bright outlook for future innovations in the fight against multiple myeloma. The anticipation is already building for the 2025 Summit in Milan!
