Which cancer types are eligible for CAR T-Cell therapy in China?
In China, CAR T-cell therapy is primarily approved and used for the treatment of hematologic malignancies, such as lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma.
While there are some clinical trials and research efforts exploring CAR T-cell therapy for solid tumors, progress in this area has been slower compared to hematologic malignancies.
As per the information available, CAR T-cell therapies for solid tumors account for only 9% of the total CAR T-cell therapies being developed in China.
How is the effectiveness of CAR T Cell therapy in China as compared to alternative treatments?
The effectiveness of chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy in China has been compared to alternative treatments through extensive clinical trials and research. As of 2022, China has a larger number of CAR-T clinical studies than the United States, particularly in hematologic malignancies. Two CAR-T therapies, axicabtagene ciloleucel (Yescarta) and relmacabtagene autoleucel (Carteyva), have been approved in China by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA).
CAR-T therapy in China has demonstrated efficacy in various hematologic malignancies, including B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), lymphoma, and multiple myeloma (MM). However, challenges remain, such as the high cost, time-consuming production process, and immune-related adverse events. To address these issues, Chinese researchers are developing strategies to optimize CAR-T therapy, including the development of allogeneic CAR-T products and the use of alternative costimulatory domains.
In summary, CAR-T therapy in China has shown promising results in hematologic malignancies, with a larger number of clinical trials compared to the United States. However, challenges remain, and further research is needed to optimize the therapy and expand its use to solid tumors.
What side effects have been observed from CAR T Cell therapy in China?
In China, the side effects observed from CAR T-cell therapy include:
– Cytokine release syndrome (CRS)
– Neurotoxicity or neurological events
– Infections, particularly viral infections
– B cell depletion (aplasia)
– Hypogammaglobulinaemia
– Cytopenia
These side effects are not unique to China but are common across CAR T-cell therapy worldwide. The management and prevention of these side effects are crucial for ensuring patient safety and optimizing treatment outcomes.
How expensive is CAR T therapy in China?
Wholesale acquisitions of CAR-T cell therapies in China are generally around Chinese Yuan (CNY) 1,200,000, which is equivalent to approximately US$170,000. The cost-effectiveness of CAR-T cell therapies in China varies depending on the specific therapy and the patient’s condition. For example, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for Axicabtagene ciloleucel (Axi-cel) versus standard of care (SOC) for patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in the second-line setting (2L) was approximately CNY 363,977 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY). However, these therapies are not considered cost-effective in any-line settings for DLBCL patients at the World Health Organization’s (WHO)-recommended willingness-to-pay threshold. Price reduction of CAR-T therapies is a main approach for lowering ICERs and ensuring that drug costs are proportional to patient health benefits.
Are there ongoing clinical trials for CAR-T treatment in China?
Yes, there are ongoing clinical trials for CAR-T cell therapy in China. As of January 2024 there are more than 700 ongoing clinical trials for CAR T Cell therapy in China. China became the country with the most registered CAR-T trials, and this trend has continued since then. The Chinese government has invested heavily in CAR-T research, and the country has a large number of clinical trials and basic research in this field. These trials extend the scope of treatment from hematologic malignancies to sloid tumors and some other disorders too.
How do I find the best hospital or doctor who provides CAR T-cell therapy in China?
CancerFax understands the importance of choosing the best facility and specialist for CAR T cell therapy in China. Our devoted service focuses on connecting people with the best cancer care at affordable costs. We work especially with the top rated hematology and cancer hospitals in China that have received approval for administering CAR T Cell therapy. We help patients choose the best option as per their needs and requirements.
What are the requirements for being considered eligible for CAR T- CELL treatment in China?
The eligibility requirements for CAR T cell therapy treatment in China vary depending on the specific therapy and the patient’s condition. Generally, patients with hematological malignancies, such as lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma, are the main candidates for CAR T cell therapy in China.
Patients must have a confirmed diagnosis of the specific cancer type and have failed to respond to standard treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Additionally, patients must meet certain health criteria, such as having adequate organ function and not having active infections or other serious medical conditions that could interfere with the treatment. The eligibility criteria for each clinical trial may vary, and patients must meet the specific requirements of the trial to participate.
To be considered eligible for CAR T cell therapy treatment in China, patients must meet certain criteria. These criteria include CD19+ B-cell Lymphoma with at least two prior combination chemotherapy sessions, an age range of 3 to 75 years, and an ECOG score of ≤2. Furthermore, for female patients of reproductive ability, a urine pregnancy test must be performed and verified negative before therapy begins. Furthermore, all patients must agree to utilize a reliable method of contraception during the trial and until the final follow-up.
Are there any rules or restrictions for foreign patients traveling to China to receive treatment with CAR T cell therapy?
There are no such restrictions for foreign patients. However, receiving the best treatment in China requires getting approval from medical authorities and a medical visa.
How soon can we expect to see results from Car T-Cell therapy treatment In China?
The timeframe for patients to see results from CAR T cell therapy in China can vary. Usually, the scans are done after 2-3 weeks to check the effect of CAR T cell therapy. CAR T cell therapy has achieved significant success in the treatment of hematological malignancies, and China has become a leading country in CAR T therapy clinical trials. However, it is important to note that the results of CAR T cell therapy can vary for each patient, and the specific timeline for seeing results can depend on factors such as the patient’s condition, the type of cancer being treated, and the specific CAR T cell therapy being used. While the therapy has exhibited remarkable clinical effects, including high overall response rates, the exact timing of when a patient can expect to see results may not be universally defined and can vary from individual to individual. Therefore, it is recommended that patients consult with their healthcare providers and clinical trial investigators for specific information regarding the expected timeline for seeing results from CAR T cell therapy.
Is long-term follow-up treatment or monitoring required for patients who have undergone CAR T-Cell therapy in China?
Yes, long-term follow-up treatment or monitoring is required for patients who have undergone CAR T cell therapy in China. CAR T cell therapy has exhibited remarkable clinical effects in the treatment of hematological malignancies, but it can also have potential side effects, such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurotoxicity.
Therefore, patients who have undergone CAR T cell therapy require close monitoring for potential side effects and long-term follow-up to assess the durability of the response and potential relapse of the cancer. The duration of follow-up can vary depending on the specific therapy and the patient’s condition, but it typically involves regular check-ups and imaging tests to monitor the patient’s health and detect any potential recurrence of the cancer.
Additionally, patients may require supportive care, such as medications to manage side effects or additional treatments if the cancer recurs.
Is it possible to combine CAR T cell therapy with other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or a bone marrow transplant?
Yes, it is possible to combine CAR T cell therapy with other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or bone marrow transplant. There is increasing interest in combining CAR T cell therapy with other anticancer agents to optimize treatment outcomes, especially in the context of hematologic malignancies. For example, in myeloma, combinations can include a standard myeloma therapy given after the CAR T-cell infusion as a maintenance strategy.
Additionally, the combination of radiotherapy with CAR-T cell therapy has shown promising effects in enhancing specific immunity and creating a more favorable tumor microenvironment for CAR-T cells in solid tumors.
Furthermore, the combination of chemotherapy with CAR-T cell therapy has been explored as a strategy to overcome barriers in CAR-T cell therapy and provide synergistic effects, especially in the treatment of solid tumors. These combination approaches aim to enhance the safety and efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy by modifying the tumor microenvironment, optimizing the CAR structure, and possibly targeting multiple antigens.
What progress or developments are occurring in CAR T-cell therapy research within China?
In China, CAR T cell therapy research is rapidly evolving, with the country having the most CAR T cell clinical trials since 2017. The Chinese government has invested heavily in CAR T cell therapy, and the country has a large number of clinical trials and basic research in this field. CAR T cell therapies have been approved for the treatment of hematological malignancies, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).
Researchers in China are exploring various strategies to optimize CAR T cell therapy, including the development of new CAR constructs, combination therapies with other treatments, and the use of CAR T cells in solid tumors. However, challenges remain, such as the complexity of manufacturing and administration, the high cost of treatment, and the need for more rational and original clinical trials.
Despite the disruption of clinical trials due to the COVID-19 pandemic, research continues in China, with the country’s regulatory agency, the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), having approved only two CAR T therapies as of the latest information available.
What are the general steps involved in traveling to China for CAR-T-cell therapy treatment?
The general steps involved in traveling to China for CAR T cell therapy treatment may vary depending on the specific hospital or treatment center. However, some general steps may include:
1. Researching hospitals or treatment centers in China that offer CAR T cell therapy and selecting one that meets your needs.
2. Contacting the hospital or treatment center to inquire about the treatment process, including the cost, eligibility requirements, and any necessary documentation.
3. Obtaining a referral from your healthcare provider and providing medical records to the hospital or treatment center.
4. Applying for a medical visa to travel to China for treatment.
5. Arranging travel and accommodations for yourself and any accompanying family members.
6. Undergoing a medical evaluation and testing upon arrival at the hospital or treatment center.
7. Receiving the CAR T cell therapy treatment and undergoing any necessary follow-up care.
8. Returning home and continuing with long-term follow-up care and monitoring.
It is important to note that the specific steps involved in traveling to China for CAR T cell therapy treatment may vary depending on the hospital or treatment center and the patient’s individual circumstances. It is recommended that patients consult with their healthcare providers and the hospital or treatment center for specific information regarding the treatment process and travel requirements.
CancerFax takes care of all these steps for you so that you remain focused on the treatment while we take care of all other things.
What is the success rate of CAR T-Cell therapy in China?
CAR T-cell therapy has shown promising results in treating blood cancers in China. As of January 2024, China had the most ongoing clinical trials in the world testing CAR T-cell therapy, with 337 focused on blood cancers and 111 on solid tumors. CAR T-cell therapy reduced tumours in 75.9% of lymphoma patients whose disease had returned after previous treatments failed. More than half (51.7%) of patients had no detectable tumors following treatment. One year later, 76.8% of lymphoma patients remained alive. China has approved two CAR T-cell therapies called FKC876 and Carteyva for cancer treatment. China is leading global research and development in CAR T-cell therapy.