In a nutshell
This study looked at the effect of early monitoring on disease progression and treatment cost in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Researchers found that patients with CML who are monitored earlier may have better outcomes and lower treatment costs.
Some background
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a progressive cancer that requires expensive and long-term drug treatment. This may be associated with higher costs and overtreatment. Monitoring in patients with CML is recommended every 3 months after starting treatment. However, not all patients receive constant monitoring. It is important to research if early monitoring of CML can improve treatment outcome and costs.
Methods & findings
2730 patients with CML were included in the study. 1633 (60%) received early monitoring and 1097 (40%) received later monitoring.
Patients with early monitoring were 28% more likely to have better treatment outcomes and lower costs than later monitored patients.
The bottom line
The study concluded that patients with CML who are monitored earlier have better treatment outcomes and lower costs associated with treatment.
The fine print
Monitoring was limited to 2 years which may have affected the results of the study.
What’s next?
Ask your doctor about monitoring your treatment for CML.
Published By :
Leukemia & lymphoma
Date :
Aug 20, 2018
