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Stopping Myeloma at the Start
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Even with all he has already done, Dr. Landgren continues to study the progression of multiple myeloma, with the goal of stopping progression and finding a cure.
Dr. C. Ola Landgren has spent his career focusing on a range of treatment and molecular profiling studies designed to seek a cure for multiple myeloma. He has improved the lives of those affected by multiple myeloma through research on precursor disease, triggers and racial disparities.
His early research identified that multiple myeloma was consistently preceded by monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, or MGUS.
Identifying precursor disease allowed physicians to better identify those at high risk of developing multiple myeloma, diagnose the cancer early and engage in early intervention care, saving lives and cost of care.
Dr. Landgren also developed and led early intervention studies for patients with high-risk precursor disease. He was a principal investigator in studies showing how environmental factors served as triggers for multiple myeloma, such as those who worked as rescue workers for the World Trade Center attack, as well asthose who were exposed to Agent Orange and pesticides. This study led the Department of Veterans Affairs to cover the care and treatment of multiple myeloma for veterans, allowing these heroes to get the care they deserve and need.
Dr. Landgren led the largest screening study for multiple myeloma precursor disease, shedding light on racial disparities by showing that it is twice as commonand that new onset is 10 years earlier in Black patientsthan other races. Highlighting these racial disparities led to more focus on treating and eliminating these disparities.
He has also developed several investigator-initiated phase 1 and 2 clinical trials designed in combination with other correlational studies. Dr. Landgren has also developed translational studies using assays to define mechanisms of resistance and identification of biomarkers for precision medicine and treatment of multiple myeloma.
Even with all he has already done, Dr. Landgren continues to study the progression of multiple myeloma, with the goal of stopping progression and finding a cure.
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