Treating Blood Cancers

Paul J. Hampel, MD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN Recorded on November 4, 2025 Paul J. Hampel, MD Assistant Professor of Medicine Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN In this episode, Dr. Paul Hampel from Mayo Clinic Rochester takes a comprehensive look at hairy cell leukemia (HCL). He reviews the current diagnostic work-up, including immunophenotypic and molecular testing, and highlights key clinical features that distinguish HCL from related disorders. Dr. Hampel also discusses approved frontline therapies and evidence-based approaches for relapsed or refractory disease, with attention to infection risk and supportive care. The conversation explores emerging agents, novel combinations, and clinical trials shaping the next wave of HCL management. Join us for this expert discussion, offering practical insights to enhance care and outcomes for patients with HCL.

Michael J. Mauro, MD, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY Recorded on October 23, 2025 Michael J. Mauro, MD Director, Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Program Professor of Medicine, Leukemia Service Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center New York, NY Tune in for this expert-led discussion with Dr. Michael Mauro from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center on the evolving management of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in the era of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and newly approved FDA therapies. Dr. Mauro explores how TKIs have transformed prognosis, key factors guiding initial therapy selection, and best practices for managing treatment-related side effects. He also shares updates on TKI discontinuation criteria, long-term monitoring, and a forward look at ongoing trials and emerging therapeutic advances shaping the future of CML care. Gain actionable insights to enhance patient outcomes today!

Rahul Banerjee, MD, FACP, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA Recorded on September 25, 2025 Rahul Banerjee, MD, FACP Assistant Professor Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center Seattle, WA In this episode, Dr. Rahul Banerjee from Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, WA, discusses the evolving role of measurable residual disease (MRD) in hematologic malignancies. He explores what MRD is, how assays are used and interpreted, and its impact across the disease continuum. The conversation also covers MRD’s role in clinical trials, how to effectively explain MRD to patients, practical considerations for testing in community settings, and key education resources for both healthcare professionals and patients. Tune in today to gain practical insights you can apply in your daily practice! This episode is supported by Adaptive Biotechnologies Corporation and Allogene Therapeutics.

Ann Collins, PA, Blood Cancer United, Washington, DC, Kelly Laschinger, MSN, RN, CPNP, CPHON, Blood Cancer United, Washington, DC, Sarah K. Tasian, MD, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA Recorded on September 9, 2025 Ann Collins, PA Project Leader, Pediatric Acute Leukemia Master Clinical Trial (PedAL) Blood Cancer United Washington, DC Kelly Laschinger, MSN, RN, CPNP, CPHON Director, Clinical Trial Support Center Blood Cancer United Washington, DC Sarah K. Tasian, MD Blood Cancer United PedAL Master Clinical Trial Lead Associate Professor of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine Chief of Hematologic Malignancies Program, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Philadelphia, PA Join us for our first episode as Blood Cancer United! In this episode, Dr. Sarah Tasian, from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Ann Collins and Kelly Laschinger, from Blood Cancer United, join us for an in-depth discussion on pediatric acute leukemias. The conversation delves into the latest therapies, treatment challenges, and the complex realities of long-term survivorship. We also explore the groundbreaking Blood Cancer United Pediatric Acute Leukemia Master Clinical Trial (PedAL), its bold vision, global collaboration, and unified approach to data collection. Valuable clinical trial resources and strategies to support patients, families, and healthcare professionals are also shared. Tune in today!

Catherine Lai, MD, MPH, University of Pennsylvania Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, Philadelphia, PA Recorded on June 27, 2025 Catherine Lai, MD, MPH Associate Professor Physician Leader, Leukemia Clinical Research Unit University of Pennsylvania Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine Philadelphia, PA In this episode, Dr. Catherine Lai, from the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, joins us to discuss the current landscape of adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment. She highlights recent advances in frontline and relapsed therapies, the critical role of measurable residual disease (MRD), and the use of immunotherapy and targeted treatments. Dr. Lai further explores transplant considerations, management of side effects, and tailored approaches for B-cell and T-cell ALL. She also emphasizes patient-centered care, including strategies for end-of-life discussions and shared decision-making. Tune in today for expert insights and practical takeaways on the evolving future of ALL care!

Uma Borate, MBBS, MS, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH Recorded on May 27, 2025 Uma Borate, MBBS, MS Associate Professor, Division of Hematology Acute Leukemia Clinical Research Disease Group Leader The Ohio State University Columbus, OH What’s changing in acute myeloid leukemia (AML)? Join Dr. Uma Borate from The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, as she dives into emerging breakthroughs in AML biology, including molecular drivers, menin inhibitors, and the challenges of developing bispecifics and CAR T-cell therapies. She also shares updates from the LLS Beat AML® Master Clinical Trial and ongoing clinical trials, and reflects on the evolving treatment landscape across age groups. Don’t miss this dynamic conversation packed with expertise and hope for the future of AML!

Aaron Gerds, MD, MS, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH Recorded on May 13, 2025 Aaron Gerds, MD, MS Associate Professor of Medicine Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Medical Director Case Comprehensive Cancer Center Clinical Research Office Cleveland, OH In this episode, Dr. Aaron Gerds from the Cleveland Clinic explores the intricacies of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs), from diagnosis and monitoring to treatment goals and the latest therapeutic advances. Dr. Gerds discusses emerging therapies, the significance of clinical trials, strategies for managing side effects and long-term effects, and valuable resources for healthcare professionals, patients, and families. Tune in today for expert insights on MPNs! This episode is supported by GSK plc and Karyopharm Therapeutics.

Tessa Faye Flores, MD, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY Recorded on April 24, 2025 Tessa Faye Flores, MD Medical Director, Cancer Screening and Survivorship Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Buffalo, NY We are pleased to celebrate the 100th episode of Treating Blood Cancers with Dr. Tessa Flores from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, New York, as she shares insights into survivorship care. In this episode, Dr. Flores explores the different phases of survivorship and the psychosocial challenges that accompany each stage. She highlights the vital role of a collaborative care team, including primary care practitioners, in supporting survivors of cancer to achieve and maintain a healthy post-treatment life. As the number of survivors continues to grow, the focus on long-term wellness becomes increasingly important. Dr. Flores emphasizes, “A tenet of survivorship care is preventive care”. Tune in for this special episode and join the conversation today! This episode is supported by Genentech, A Member of the Roche Group. Additional Episodes on Survivorship Care: Key Strategies for HCPs: Supporting Caregivers and Care Partners Understanding Mental Health in Cancer Survivorship Navigating Adult Survivorship Care Exploring Survivorship Needs of Older Adults Strategic Approaches to Pediatric and AYA Survivorship Care Creating a Roadmap for Adult Survivorship Care Survivorship Care of Older Adults: Addressing the Unique Needs Supporting Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Survivors A Conversation on Adult Survivorship

Mikkael A. Sekeres, MD, MS, University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL Recorded on April 17, 2025 Mikkael A. Sekeres, MD, MS Chief, Division of Hematology Professor of Medicine Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center University of Miami Miami, FL Join us with Dr. Mikkael Sekeres of the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center as he explores the complexities of diagnosing and treating Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS), including “watch and wait.” Through case-based discussion, he highlights advances in high-risk MDS management, from novel targeted therapies to stem cell transplantation and clinical trials. Dr. Sekeres also shares strategies for managing side effects and emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary care in improving patient outcomes. Tune in to gain valuable insights on MDS today!

Jeffrey Magee, MD, PhD, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO Recorded on April 3, 2025 Jeffrey Magee, MD, PhD Elizabeth H. and James S. McDonnell III Professor of Pediatrics Director, McDonnell Pediatric Cancer Center Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, MO In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jeffrey Magee from the McDonald Pediatric Cancer Center at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis to discuss the evolving landscape of pediatric blood cancers. Reflecting on his work, Dr. Magee shares, “One of the things I really love about the job is that it operates right at the interface between the science and the professional practice of medicine.” He examines groundbreaking advances bringing new hope to children and their families, from novel therapies and CAR T-cell therapy to the crucial role of clinical trials. Dr. Magee also speaks candidly about the challenges of delivering difficult news and shares compassionate strategies for supporting families through their toughest moments. Join us for this insightful and informative conversation on the future of pediatric blood cancer care today! Additional LLS Resource: Stars Will Twinkle, The Sun Will Shine A three-book series and movie for kids with blood cancer. Follow Olivia and her family as she is diagnosed with leukemia, goes to the hospital for treatment, and returns to school.