As part of a visit to Georgia Cancer Center in Augusta, Georgia, CancerNetwork spoke with a variety of experts and faculty members regarding ongoing research and future initiatives dedicated to improving outcomes across different patient populations. These conversations touched upon potential developments in diseases including non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), multiple myeloma, and acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

First, Girindra Raval, MD, an associate professor in the Department of Medicine: Hematology and Oncology of the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, discussed current studies at his institution that may help optimize treatment for patients with lung cancer. This research ranged from retrospective trials analyzing how demographic features may influence outcomes to biomarker-based assessments intended to augment the efficacy of immunotherapy. Looking towards the future, Raval stated that determining how to sequence and de-escalate treatment amidst several available therapeutic options will be a key concern in the field.

Additionally, Amany Keruakous, MD, director of Myeloma Research at Georgia Cancer Center and assistant professor in the Department of Medicine: Hematology and Oncology at the Medical College of Georgia of Augusta University, detailed strategies for mitigating current challenges in multiple myeloma care. She emphasized fostering collaborative relationships between colleagues in community settings and academic institutions to help reduce barriers to treatment access among patients. Furthermore, she noted the importance of conducting additional clinical trials at community centers. 

Finally, Daniel Peters, MD, an assistant professor at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University and bone marrow transplant & cellular therapy faculty member at Georgia Cancer Center, focused on key developments across the AML space. At his institution, Peters and colleagues are evaluating potential drivers of immune dysfunction, which may inform less intensive cellular therapy approaches or determine who is suitable to receive autologous types of treatment. Peters also discussed how additional research set for presentation at meetings like the 2025 American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting and Exposition (ASH) may affirm a shift away from 7+3 intensive chemotherapy for patients who are younger and fit with newly diagnosed AML.