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Johnson & Johnson's Survey on CLL Patients' Treatment Expectations

On September 1, the global CLL Day, Johnson & Johnson (J&J) released findings from a survey targeting patients diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL). This survey was conducted to understand patient satisfaction with current treatments and their expectations from drug therapies. According to J&J, the results revealed that the majority of CLL/SLL patients, whether they have undergone drug therapy or not, prefer treatments that minimize the burden associated with doctor visits, medication intake, and day-to-day activities.

Definitions: CLL stands for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, while SLL refers to Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma, both characterized by the malignant transformation of a type of white blood cell known as B lymphocytes.

CLL/SLL is a type of blood cancer that usually progresses gradually, requiring patients to manage the disease long-term. In its initial phases, CLL can be asymptomatic, leading to a standard observation period before initiating treatment when symptoms become progressive.

The survey findings showed that patient satisfaction with overall care was higher among those who had experience with drug therapy, with 60% indicating they were either satisfied (11%) or somewhat satisfied (49%). In contrast, only 47% of those without drug therapy experience expressed satisfaction (18% satisfied and 29% somewhat satisfied).

When comparing satisfaction with different treatment methods, satisfaction rates for intravenous or injected treatments averaged 51% (with 4% satisfied and 47% somewhat satisfied), while oral medication saw a higher satisfaction rate of 61% (with 8% satisfied and 53% somewhat satisfied).

Moreover, when asked what aspects are most crucial during treatment, 25% of those who had undergone drug therapy indicated that minimal impact on daily life was essential, while 24% noted the importance of reduced financial burdens. Combined, about half of the patients expressed the desire to maintain their regular lifestyle and minimize economic strains during treatment. For those without prior drug therapy experience, the two top priorities were minimal impact on daily life and longevity, each cited by 29%.

In assessing what patients are looking for in CLL/SLL treatments, the overall feedback was scored on a 100-point scale, focusing on treatment efficacy, safety, and other factors. Results revealed that average scores were 47 for treatment efficacy, 43 for safety, and 10 for other considerations. Notably, among the aspects evaluated, maintaining a lifestyle similar to prior to illness scored highest within treatment efficacy (45/100), while fewer infections ranked highest within safety (43/100). The aspect of being able to receive treatment through outpatient services scored fairly high in the broader category of 'other' (39/100).

When analyzed further based on drug therapy experience, those without such experience ranked outpatient treatment at 35 points as the highest preference, followed by a definitive treatment duration at 21 points, and oral medication at 18 points. Conversely, for experienced patients, outpatient treatment received 40 points, followed by less frequent clinic visits at 21 points and a predetermined treatment duration at 16 points. This demonstrates a shared emphasis among CLL/SLL patients on outpatient treatment, treatment duration, and reduced visit frequency, irrespective of their previous therapy experiences.

Dr. Sadakazu Aoki, a professor specializing in hematology at Niigata University of Pharmacy and Applied Life Sciences, who oversaw the survey, commented, "The survey results clearly indicate that patients with CLL desire treatment options that minimize the impact on their daily lives, regardless of their drug therapy background. With advancements in treatments, CLL patients can now aim for survival rates similar to healthy individuals, which makes it even more essential to pursue treatment approaches that lessen burdens over the long term."

Additionally, Mr. Haruo Saito, the representative of the CLL patient and family association, shared, "Patients with CLL face various anxieties while dealing with this long-term condition. It is crucial for each patient to play an active role in their treatment decision-making process, allowing them to choose the path that feels right for their lives. This means being open about their thoughts and wishes with their doctors to select the most satisfactory treatment methods."

Survey Overview

• - Conducted by: Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K.
• - Survey Period: Quantitative research from October 4 to November 18, 2024; interviews from November 12 to 24, 2024.
• - Respondents: 156 patients diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (11 participated in the interview).
• - Method: Internet or postal survey, including interviews (Conducted by Social Information Service).
• - Supervision and Cooperation: CLL Patient and Family Association, Dr. Sadakazu Aoki.

About Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

CLL is typically characterized by a slower progression and is most commonly diagnosed in older individuals, with a median age of diagnosis around 72. Over recent decades, patient prognosis has improved significantly, yet recurrent bouts of the disease and the necessity for treatment continue to differentiate CLL. Patients often require multiple lines of treatment, facing challenges with relapse or resistance to therapies. Fortunately, the emergence of novel targeted therapies like Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitors has significantly bridged the survival rates of CLL patients and the general population. It's estimated that both CLL and SLL comprise 1-2% of overall leukemia cases, correlating to approximately 2,000 patients in Japan, predominantly among seniors, making these diseases relatively rare and difficult to cure with chemotherapy alone.

World CLL Day

Every September 1 is recognized as World CLL Day, when CLL patients and supporters unite to bolster awareness and share patient narratives. This day allows patients to gather and deepen their understanding of the challenges they face regarding diagnosis and treatment. For more information, visit World CLL Day.

About Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson believes in the comprehensive importance of health. Leveraging our strengths in healthcare innovations, we are dedicated to evolving treatments, making them less invasive while tailoring solutions to individual patients. By fostering innovation across various healthcare solutions in innovative medicine and MedTech, we aim to make significant impacts on public health.

For more information on Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine in Japan, visit J&J Innovative Medicine.