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NCCN Launches Grants for CLL/SLL Patient Care

On December 4, 2024, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®) Oncology Research Program (ORP) revealed new funding opportunities aimed at enhancing care for patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL). This initiative is significant considering CLL/SLL is the most commonly diagnosed form of leukemia in the United States, accounting for approximately 20,000 new cases each year.

The grants are designed to support quality improvement research projects that tackle existing gaps in treatment for this patient population. Many diagnosed individuals, especially older adults, struggle to receive the optimal care necessary to manage their health effectively. The primary focus of these projects is to improve the quality of life for patients while also addressing disparities in care among underserved communities.

Dr. Crystal S. Denlinger, the CEO of NCCN, expressed her enthusiasm about these advancements: "Despite several advancements in treatment options, a significant number of CLL/SLL patients, particularly in underserved demographics, are not receiving care that conforms to current clinical guidelines. Our objective is to increase access to quality treatment, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and overall quality of life."

The selected research projects included:
1. Larry Cripe, MD, Indiana University - The CLL/SLL Care Road Map: Development of interactive web resources for making informed treatment decisions.
2. Alessandra Ferrajoli, MD, MD Anderson Cancer Center - Improving early detection of other cancers in patients with CLL using multicancer early detection testing.
3. Sara Tinsley-Vance, PhD, Moffitt Cancer Center - Investigation into predictors of health-related quality of life for adults with CLL/SLL.

Alan Yong, MD, from AstraZeneca, commended the NCCN ORP for supporting important research initiatives targeting CLL/SLL patients: "Despite years of treatment advancements that have positively influenced patient outcomes, CLL/SLL remains largely incurable. Therefore, research aimed at the optimization of diagnostics and treatment protocols, as well as improving patients' quality of life, is crucial."

The peer-review process for the proposals was conducted by a Scientific Review Committee composed of leading oncologists and experts from NCCN Member Institutions, ensuring that the selected projects meet high standards of scientific excellence.

The NCCN ORP is committed to fostering innovation and acquiring knowledge to enhance the quality of life for cancer patients. It supports a wide array of oncology research projects, including preclinical, translational, and clinical research potential in collaboration with its member institutions. The initiative underscores NCCN's mission to promote an equitable healthcare landscape, making essential contributions to cancer research and patient care improvements.

For more information on the NCCN's efforts and ongoing initiatives, visit NCCN.org/orp. By investing in quality improvement research like this, the NCCN aims to transform how care is delivered and ensure that all patients diagnosed with CLL/SLL receive the best treatments possible.