Hilo

This research aims to pilot test CTNow, an educational program designed to improve access and referrals to cancer clinical trials for patients and oncology providers in rural areas. The program focuses on increasing awareness and understanding of clinical trials through patient and provider education and teleconference resources. The study is sponsored by the University of Hawaii and targets individuals involved in cancer care within rural communities. The study includes two main interventions a patient education program and a provider education program. Patients receive a multimedia educational series lasting about 30 minutes, covering topics such as what clinical trials are, their types and phases, benefits and drawbacks, costs, and how to join. Providers participate in three individual teleconference sessions tailored to their background, covering clinical trial infrastructure in Hawaii, available trials, and how to get involved, with follow-up sessions scheduled 4 to 6 months later. Participants will be evaluated over 18 months to assess changes in patients awareness and knowledge of clinical trials. Assessments include educational video viewing and provider workshops conducted via teleconference. Patients must be residents of specific Hawaiian counties and able to understand English. The study includes tracking of patient and provider engagement, with no masking or randomization involved. Participation is expected to enhance understanding of clinical trials within these rural communities.

Researchers are studying how well inotuzumab ozogamicin works when combined with frontline chemotherapy in treating young adults aged 18 to 39 years with newly diagnosed B acute lymphoblastic leukemia that is CD22 positive. This phase III trial investigates the side effects and effectiveness of this combination compared to chemotherapy alone, aiming to improve event-free survival and other outcomes. The study also explores genetic and molecular markers to better understand treatment response and risks. Participants receive a pediatric-inspired chemotherapy regimen called CALGB 10403, which includes multiple courses of treatment remission induction, remission consolidation, interim maintenance, delayed intensification, and maintenance therapy. Some patients also receive inotuzumab ozogamicin intravenously on specific days, followed by blinatumomab if minimal residual disease is detected. Treatment cycles repeat according to response and tolerance, with additional therapies like rituximab and radiation as needed. Imaging and laboratory tests are done throughout. During the trial, participants undergo regular assessments including bone marrow biopsies, blood tests, and imaging such as echocardiography or multigated acquisition scans. Researchers measure outcomes like event-free survival, disease-free survival, overall survival, response rates, and treatment side effects for up to 10 years. After treatment, patients are followed closely every few months for up to 10 years to monitor long-term effects and disease status.