A recent study published in Blood Cancer Journal has uncovered significant disparities in the initiation of oral antimyeloma medications, with Black patients and older individuals facing longer delays in treatment. The research, conducted at Cleveland Clinic’s Taussig Cancer Center, sheds light on the persistent racial and age-related inequalities in multiple myeloma care.
The study analyzed data from 543 patients diagnosed with symptomatic multiple myeloma between 2017 and 2021. Researchers found that by 30 days after initial diagnosis, only 28% of Black patients had filled a prescription for oral antimyeloma medication, compared to 43% of White patients. This disparity persisted even after adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical variables.
Age also played a crucial role in treatment delays. Patients aged 75 years or older had a significantly lower prescription fill rate (24%) compared to younger age groups. The study revealed that for every year increase in age, there was a 3% decrease in the likelihood of filling a prescription promptly.
Other factors contributing to delayed treatment initiation included inpatient diagnosis and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate. These findings highlight the complex interplay of clinical and demographic factors in accessing timely myeloma treatment.
The researchers emphasized the need for further investigation into the barriers affecting these populations, suggesting qualitative research approaches to better understand and address these disparities. They also stressed the importance of focusing on simultaneous initiation of all components of guideline-recommended multidrug induction regimens for multiple myeloma.
As the cost of oral antimyeloma medications can be substantial, ranging from double digits to millions, addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to life-saving treatments for all patients with multiple myeloma.
See “Delays in Myeloma Oral Therapy Linked to Race, Age” (October 11, 2024)
