Top 5 Blood Cancer Stories of 2025

Last year brought notable developments in blood cancer treatment and research, highlighting multiple myeloma, lymphoma, leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. These advancements included new drug approvals, clinical trial findings and personal insights from patients navigating their diagnoses. Here are the top five stories for patients with blood cancer from 2025.

Single-Drug Approach Shows Efficacy for Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma

Researchers studied a single-drug approach for patients newly diagnosed with multiple myeloma, aiming to simplify treatment while maintaining effectiveness. The therapy is taken orally, reducing the need for combination regimens.

Early results suggested patients could achieve strong responses with fewer medications, and side effects were generally manageable. Clinicians noted that this strategy could make treatment schedules easier and reduce the burden of frequent clinic visits. Some patients also reported an improved quality of life from having a simpler therapy plan.

“This approach may allow patients to begin treatment with fewer medications without compromising outcomes,” researchers said, highlighting the potential for broader use in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.

Facing Leukemia Again, Suleika Jaouad Shares Her Experience

Journalist and patient Suleika Jaouad shared her journey after her latest leukemia diagnosis, offering insights into living with the disease. She described both the physical and emotional challenges of facing leukemia again and emphasized the importance of mindfulness and support networks.

Her story illustrated how unpredictable blood cancers can be and how patients can navigate ongoing treatment while preserving quality of life. Jaouad’s perspective highlighted practical strategies for coping with the uncertainty and stress of repeated cancer treatment.

“Every day is precious, and I try to live it as if it’s my first,” Jaouad said, underscoring the value of intentional living despite ongoing medical care.

EU Approves Rytelo for Transfusion-Dependent Anemia in Low-Risk MDS

The European Commission approved Rytelo (imetelstat) for adults with transfusion-dependent anemia from low-risk myelodysplastic syndromes. This marked the first approval in the EU for a telomerase inhibitor for this indication.

In the phase 3 IMerge trial, Rytelo significantly reduced patients’ need for red blood cell transfusions during the first 24 weeks of treatment. Side effects, including low platelet and neutrophil counts, were generally manageable and resolved within four weeks for most patients.

“As the first and only treatment of its kind, Rytelo represents an important new option,” said Dr. Joseph Eid, Geron’s executive vice president of Research and Development. The therapy offers a new choice for patients whose anemia does not respond to standard erythropoietin-based treatments.

Understanding Your Early-Stage Lymphoma Diagnosis

This article explains what patients should know when diagnosed with early-stage lymphoma. Early-stage disease is often highly treatable, but treatment depends on the lymphoma subtype and overall health.

Options include watchful waiting for slow-growing lymphomas or active treatment with targeted therapies or immunotherapy. Understanding your diagnosis, treatment plan and potential side effects helps you make informed decisions and participate actively in your care.

What You Should Know About Relapsed or Refractory Follicular Lymphoma

This article focuses on patients whose follicular lymphoma has returned or stopped responding to previous treatments. Multiple lines of therapy may be needed, and newer targeted treatments can help patients not responding to standard care.

The article emphasizes the importance of discussing personalized options with your healthcare team, including clinical trials. Patients are encouraged to consider the benefits, potential side effects and long-term outcomes when planning ongoing treatment.

References

1. “Single-Drug Approach Explored for Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma,” CURE Today, May 28, 2025
2. “Facing Leukemia Again: Suleika Jaouad Lives Every Day Like It’s Her First,” CURE Today, March 13, 2025
3. “EU Approves Rytelo for Transfusion-Dependent Anemia in Low-Risk MDS,” CURE Today, March 25, 2025
4. “Understanding Your Early-Stage Lymphoma Diagnosis,” CURE Today, January 17, 2025
5. “What You Should Know About Relapsed or Refractory Follicular Lymphoma,” CURE Today, January 8, 2025

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