Cilta-cel Elicits an ORR of 100% in Multiple Myeloma After Early Relapse on Initial Therapy – OncLive

The CAR T-cell therapy ciltacabtagene autoleucel generated a high response rate in patients with multiple myeloma who experienced early clinical relapse or failure to initial therapy.

The CAR T-cell therapy ciltacabtagene autoleucel (cilta-cel; Carvykti) generated a high response rate in patients with multiple myeloma who experienced early clinical relapse or failure to initial therapy, according to data from cohort B of the phase 2 CARTITUDE-2 trial (NCT04133636) presented during the 2022 EHA Congress.1

At a median follow-up of 13.4 months (range, 5.2-21.7), cilta-cel produced an overall response rate (ORR) of 100% (95% CI, 82.4%-100%) in 19 patients; 90% of patients achieved a complete response (CR) or better and 95% had a very good partial response (VGPR) or better. The CAR T-cell therapy resulted in a partial response rate of 5%, and a stringent CR of 63%.

Notably, of the 15 patients with minimal residual disease (MRD)evaluable samples, 93.3% (95% CI, 68.1%-99.8%) achieved negativity with treatment.

"These results are consistent with the responses that we [saw] in the phase 1b/2 CARTITUDE-1 trial [NCT03548207] and in [cohort A of] CARTITUDE-2, Niels W.C.J. van de Donk, MD, study author and hematologist at the VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, said in a presentation of the data. The efficacy and safety profile of cilta-cel in high-risk patients with multiple myeloma who experienced early clinical research or treatment failure support the continued exploration of cilta-cel in earlier lines of treatment.

In February 2022, the FDA approved cilta-cel for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma following 4 or more prior lines of therapy, including a proteasome inhibitor (PI), an immunomodulatory agent (IMiD), and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, based on results from CARTITUDE-1.2

CARTITUDE-2 aimed to further evaluate cilta-cel in select patient populations with multiple myeloma. Prior data from cohort A of the trial demonstrated that patients who received 2 previous lines of therapy experienced an ORR of 95%, including 79% with a CR or better, and 90% with a VGPR or better.3

Efficacy and safety data from cohort B were presented during the 2022 EHA Congress.

Cohort B enrolled patients with multiple myeloma who experienced early relapse following initial treatment that included a PI and an IMiD. Patients were required to have disease progression per International Myeloma Working Group criteria within 12 months after treatment with autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) or from the start of anti-myeloma therapy for patients who did not have an ASCT.4

After screening, patients underwent apheresis followed by bridging therapy, as needed. Five days prior to infusion with cilta-cel, patients received 300 mg/m2 of cyclophosphamide and 30 mg/m2 of fludarabine for 3 days. On day 1 of the study, patients received a cilta-cel infusion with a target dose of 0.75 x 106 CAR-positive viable T cells/kg. Post-infusion assessments were done from day 1 through 100, and posttreatment assessments were conducted from day 101 through the end of the cohort.

The primary end point of CARTITUDE-2 was MRD 10-5 negativity, assessed by next-generation sequencing or next-generation flow. Secondary end points included ORR, duration of response (DOR), time to response, and safety.

Within cohort B, the median age was 58 years (range, 44-67). Most patients were male (73.7%), White (73.7%), had bone marrow plasma cells of less than 60% (78.9%), did not have extramedullary plasmacytomas (84.2%), and did not have a high-risk cytogenetic profile (84.2%). The median time since initial diagnosis was 1.15 years (range, 0.5-1.9), the median prior lines of therapy received was 1 (range, 1-1), and 78.9% of patients underwent prior ASCT. Notably, 21.1% of patients had a triple-class exposure status.

Moreover, 15.8% of patients were triple-class refractory, 78.9% were refractory to their last line of therapy, 78.9% were refractory to lenalidomide (Revlimid), 31.6% were refractory to bortezomib (Velcade), 15.8% were refractory to daratumumab (Darzalex), and 10.5% were refractory to thalidomide.

Additional data showed that the median DOR was not reached with CAR T-cell therapy. The median time to first response was 1.0 month (range, 0.9-9.7), and the median time to best response was 5.1 months (range, 0.9-11.8). The 12-month progression-free survival rate was 89.5% (95% CI, 64.1%-97.3%) with CAR T-cell therapy.

The peak expansion of CAR T cells occurred on day 13 (range, 9-210), and the median CAR T-cell persistence was 77 days (range, 41-222).

Levels of IL-6 and IFN- increased following infusion of cilta-cel, peaking at days 7 through 14 and returning to baseline levels within 2 to 3 months. Notably, the incidence of cytokine release syndrome (CRS) was associated with a higher peak of IL-6 and IFN-.

CRS was reported in 84% of patients; 1 patient had grade 3/4 CRS. The median time to onset of CRS was 8 days (range, 5-11), and the median duration was 3.5 days (range, 1-7). Additionally, 63% of patients received tocilizumab (Actemra) and 21% were given corticosteroids for CRS. This toxicity was resolved in all patients.

Neurotoxicity was reported in 26% of patients, and it had resolved in 3 of 5 patients. One patient experienced grade 1 immune effector cellassociated neurotoxicity syndrome, with a time to onset of 11 days and a duration of 4 days. Another patient experienced grade 3 movement and neurocognitive treatment-emergent adverse effects (MNTs)/parkinsonism that occurred at day 38. Notably, this patient had at least 2 risk factors for MNTs/parkinsonism, and they showed improvement at the time of data cutoff and achieved a CR.

The incidence of MNT and parkinsonism decreased from 6% in CARTITUDE-1 to less than 0.5% after implementation of patient management strategies across the CARTITUDE program, and that includes to administer these patients effective bridging therapy to reduce tumor burden and to treat CRS or icons [early], if it occurs, van de Donk said.

Regarding other safety data, hematologic adverse effects (AEs) of any grade included neutropenia (95%), anemia (58%), thrombocytopenia (58%), lymphopenia (32%), and leukopenia (26%).

Grade 3 or 4 hematologic AEs included neutropenia (90%), anemia (47%), thrombocytopenia (26%), lymphopenia (32%), and leukopenia (26%). Notably, the rate of grade 3/4 cytopenias that did to not improve to grade 2 or less by day 60 was 16% for thrombocytopenia, 11% for lymphopenia, and 11% for neutropenia.

One death occurred on the study, due to progressive disease on day 158. For the 1 patient treated in an outpatient setting, the safety profile of cilta-cel was found to be manageable.

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Cilta-cel Elicits an ORR of 100% in Multiple Myeloma After Early Relapse on Initial Therapy - OncLive

CHMP issues a positive opinion recommending full approval of Oncopeptides Pepaxti in EU for patients with triple class refractory multiple myeloma -…

STOCKHOLM, June 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --Oncopeptides AB (publ) (Nasdaq Stockholm: ONCO), a biotech company focused on research and development of therapies for difficult-to-treat hematological diseases, today announces that the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP), has unanimously adopted a positive opinion recommending a full marketing authorization approval (MAA) of Pepaxti (melphalan flufenamide, also called melflufen) in EU. The European Commission (EC) will make a legally binding decision based on the EMA recommendation within 60 days. Once granted by EC, the marketing authorization is valid in all EU member states, as well as in the European Economic Area (EEA) countries Iceland, Lichtenstein, and Norway.

The positive opinion is based on data from the phase 2 HORIZON study and is supported by data from the randomized controlled phase 3 OCEAN study which was utilized as confirmatory study. No specific post-marketing commitments were issued. Oncopeptides intends to submit a type II variation in Q4 2022 to enable access to earlier lines of treatment for patients with relapsed refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM).

Pepaxti is indicated, in combination with dexamethasone, for the treatment of adult patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least three prior lines of therapies, whose disease is refractory to at least one proteasome inhibitor, one immunomodulatory agent, and one anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, and who have demonstrated disease progression on or after the last therapy. For patients with a prior autologous stem cell transplantation, the time to progression should be at least 3 years from transplantation.

"Pepaxti helps patients with multiple myeloma, an incurable hematologic cancer. Today's positive CHMP opinion confirms that Pepaxti provides benefit to these patients and is foundational for the future of Oncopeptides and our development pipeline," says Jakob Lindberg, CEO of Oncopeptides. "Based on the scientific evaluation by EMA, our dialogue with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has now been intensified to achieve a clear path forward also for US patients."

Efficacy results for triple-class refractory patients who have received at least 3prior lines of therapies and who had no ASCT or progressed more than 36 months after an ASCT in the HORIZON study

Response (n=52)

HORIZON study(assessed by investigator)

Overall response rate (ORR), 95% CI (%)

28.8% (17.1%, 43.1%)

Duration of response (DOR) 95% CI (months)

7.6 (3.0-12.3)

Time to response (TTR) (months)

2.3 (1.0-10.5)

"The recommendation for full approval of Pepaxti by EMA is really good news for patients with triple class refractory disease, where the unmet medical need remains high and treatment options often are exhausted," says Pieter Sonneveld, professor of Hematology at the Erasmus University Medical Center in Rotterdam, the Netherlands and principal investigator of the OCEAN study.

"EMAs assessment of Pepaxti corroborates our scientific conclusion that the overall survival result in the OCEAN study constitutes a case of true survival heterogeneity which is reflected in the indication statement in accordance with the agencys guidelines," says Klaas Bakker, MD, PhD, Executive Vice President, and Chief Medical Officer. "In addition, EMA confirms that there are no toxicological safety signals in both studies and there is a positive benefit risk profile in the indicated patient population. The non-transplanted, often older patient population, which represents the largest group of RRMM patients, particularly benefits from treatment with Pepaxti."

As previously disclosed, Oncopeptides has an EIB loan facility. Oncopeptides and EIB are currently in negotiations, to update tranche definitions to reflect the current regulatory situation. In addition, the Company is considering additional financing options to capture the opportunities with the upcoming EU-approval. This may include new share issues and other public or private financing options.

Oncopeptides will advance market access activities after an approval by the European Commission, to pave the way for a successful launch of Pepaxti in Germany in Q4, 2022. The Company is actively considering various options to commercialize the drug, making it available for patients across Europe, and maximizing shareholder value.

Conference call for investors, analysts, and media

Investors, financial analysts, and media are invited to participate in a webcast with a Q&A session on June 27, 2022, at 11:00 (CET). The event will be hosted by CEO Jakob Lindberg, CMO Klaas Bakker and CFO Annika Muskantor.

Webcast

The webcast will be streamed via https://tv.streamfabriken.com/2022-pressconference. The link can also be found on the website: http://www.oncopeptides.com.

Dial-in number

SE: +46856642695 UK: +443333009270 US: +16467224902

For further information, please contact:

Rolf Gulliksen, Global Head of Corporate Communications, Oncopeptides AB (publ) E-post: [emailprotected] Mobil: + 46 70262 96 28

The information in the press release is information that Oncopeptides is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person above, on June 23, 2022, at 17:55 (CET).

About Pepaxti

Pepaxti (melphalan flufenamide, also called melflufen) is a lipophilic peptide conjugated alkylating drug that rapidly and selectively is delivering cytotoxic agents into tumor cells. The drug is composed of a di-peptide and an alkylating moiety. The lipophilicity allows a faster cellular uptake whereas the peptide hydrolysis mediated by aminopeptidases, results in accumulation of alkylating moieties in cancer cells. This results in an improved efficacy without an increased toxicity compared to melphalan. Pepaxti inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of haematopoietic and solid tumour cells. It shows synergistic cytotoxicity in combination with dexamethasone in melphalan resistant and non-resistant multiple myeloma cell lines.

Pepaxti is indicated in combination with dexamethasone, for the treatment of adult patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least three prior lines of therapy, whose disease is refractory to at least one proteasome inhibitor, one immunomodulatory agent, and one anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, and who have demonstrated disease progression on or after the last therapies. For patients with a prior autologous stem cell transplantation, the time to progression should be at least 3 years from transplantation.

About Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancer that originates in plasma cells, a type of white blood cells which produce antibodies to help fight infection, and cause cancer cells to accumulate in the bone marrow. Multiple Myeloma is the second most common hematologic malignancy, and accounts for approximately 1-2% of all new cancer cases, with a global incidence rate of 1.7 per 100,000 and an age-standardized incidence rate of 2.1-3.4 per 100,000 in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK. An estimated 35,842 patients were diagnosed in the EU27 during 2020, with an estimated 23,275 deaths due to the disease (ECIS 2020).

Patients with multiple myeloma may have symptom-free periods, but the disease always relapses, and patients may become refractory to all available treatment options due to mutations and/or clonal evolution of the tumor cells.A growing subset of patients are triple-class refractory, and develop disease refractory to immunomodulatory drugs, proteasome inhibitors, and CD38- targeting monoclonal antibodies. These patients have a very short expected overall survival.

About Oncopeptides

Oncopeptides is a biotech company focused on research and development of pharmaceuticals for difficult-to-treat haematological diseases. The company uses its proprietary PDC platform to develop peptide-drug conjugated compounds that rapidly and selectively deliver cytotoxic agents into cancer cells. The first drug coming from the PDC platform, Pepaxto (INN melphalan flufenamide), was granted accelerated approval in the U.S., on February 26, 2021, in combination with dexamethasone, for treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Due to regulatory hurdles the product is currently not marketed in the U.S. On June 23, 2022, CHMP adopted a positive opinion recommending full approval of Oncopeptides Pepaxti (melphalan flufenamide), in EU in patients with triple class refractory multiple myeloma. Oncopeptides is developing several new compounds based on the PDC platform. The company is listed in the Mid Cap segment on Nasdaq Stockholm with the ticker ONCO. More information is available onwww.oncopeptides.com.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

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NEW HEMATOLOGY CHIEF AND DIRECTOR OF THE WESLEY CENTER FOR IMMUNOTHERAPY NAMED FOR UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS SEIDMAN CANCER CENTER – 69News WFMZ-TV

CLEVELAND, May 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- One of America's top cancer doctors with a national and international reputation for cancer research will lead the new Wesley Center for Immunotherapy at University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center as well as the Division of Hematology.

Koen van Besien, MD, PhD, comes to UH Seidman Cancer Center from New York-Presbyterian Hospital, where he has been Director of the Stem Cell Transplant Program and an attending physician. He is also a Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City.

Dr. van Besien will lead the Wesley Center for Immunotherapy at UH Seidman Cancer Center, a cellular therapy facility that generates CAR-T, NK cell and other cellular-based therapies. Physician-scientists engage in groundbreaking research and bring new, life-extending immunotherapy treatments to patients. UH experts are creating cells for treatment in just eight days - an innovation that allows UH Seidman Cancer Center physicians to deliver life-enhancing therapy more quickly than previously possible.

With an established reputation for clinical research and care, Dr. van Besien has made numerous contributions to the field of cellular therapy and stem cell transplantation. Most recently, he has focused on methods to extend the use of transplantation to more patients in need. His group has recently reported the first successful transplant for a patient with HIV and leukemia using a haplo-cord graft - a unique procedure developed by his team. The patient remains free of HIV and leukemia more than four years after transplant.

Dr. van Besien is Editor in Chief of the Journal of Leukemia and Lymphoma and a member of the editorial review boards of the journals Bone Marrow Transplantation and Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation. His NIH-supported research has been published in more than 300 peer-reviewed papers.

Dr. van Besien completed medical school and clinical training at College ND de la Paix in Namur and the University of Leuven, both in Belgium. He holds a PhD from the University of Maastricht in the Netherlands. He completed his hematology/oncology fellowship at Indiana University and in Bruges, Belgium. Dr. van Besien has served on the faculty of MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. He also directed transplant programs at the University of Illinois for four years and at the University of Chicago for a decade.

He is fluent in five languages: English, Dutch, German, Spanish and French.

Dr. van Besien joins UH Seidman Cancer Center on July 15.

About University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center/Cleveland, Ohio

UH Seidman Cancer Center is the only freestanding cancer hospital in Northeast Ohio, where all clinicians and staff are dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer while researching new and innovative treatment options through clinical trials. Nationally ranked cancer care is also available to patients through the 11-county region at 16 community-based locations. Our UH Seidman specialists make up 14 cancer-specific teams focused on determining integrated care plans tailored to patient's needs. UH Seidman Cancer Center is part of the National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Case Comprehensive Cancer Center at Case Western Reserve University, one of 52 comprehensive cancer centers in the country. Patients have access to advanced treatment options, ranging from a pioneering stem cell transplant program founded more than 40 years ago and a wide range of immunotherapy to the first and only proton therapy center in northern Ohio for adults and children. Go to UHhospitals.org/Seidman for more information.

About University Hospitals / Cleveland, Ohio Founded in 1866, University Hospitals serves the needs of patients through an integrated network of 23 hospitals (including five joint ventures), more than 50 health centers and outpatient facilities, and over 200 physician offices in 16 counties throughout northern Ohio. The system's flagship quaternary care, academic medical center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, is affiliated with Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Oxford University and the Technion Israel Institute of Technology. The main campus also includes the UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, ranked among the top children's hospitals in the nation; UH MacDonald Women's Hospital, Ohio's only hospital for women; and UH Seidman Cancer Center, part of the NCI-designated Case Comprehensive Cancer Center. UH is home to some of the most prestigious clinical and research programs in the nation, with more than 3,000 active clinical trials and research studies underway. UH Cleveland Medical Center is perennially among the highest performers in national ranking surveys, including "America's Best Hospitals" from U.S. News & World Report. UH is also home to 19 Clinical Care Delivery and Research Institutes. UH is one of the largest employers in Northeast Ohio with more than 30,000 employees. Follow UH on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. For more information, visit UHhospitals.org.

This news release was issued on behalf of Newswise(TM). For more information, visit http://www.newswise.com.

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NEW HEMATOLOGY CHIEF AND DIRECTOR OF THE WESLEY CENTER FOR IMMUNOTHERAPY NAMED FOR UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS SEIDMAN CANCER CENTER - 69News WFMZ-TV

UAE powerhouse VPS Healthcare launches Burjeel Holdings to scale the next generation of its growth – PR Newswire

"Burjeel Holdings enables us to consolidate our healthcare offerings under one platform to create an integrated ecosystem, which will continue our vision to offer end-to-end health solutions under a single window. As we embark on our expansion journey, the platform will provide the foundation to scale up operations in new geographies in the GCC and beyond. It will also enable us to take strategic corporate actions needed to drive our future growth," said Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Chairman and Managing Director, VPS Healthcare. "We are proud to launch this exciting next phase of growth on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos as a representation of our vision to explore, expand, and grow our capabilities."

Burjeel Holdings will operate nearly 60 assets catering to all socio-economic segments across a range of brands, including Burjeel Hospitals, Medeor Hospital, LLH Hospital, Lifecare Hospital, and Tajmeel. Its flagship facility, Burjeel Medical City, is the largest private hospital in the UAE and the only ESMO-accredited center. In addition to having renowned world-class centers of excellence, Burjeel Holdings consolidates the largest diagnostic network in the UAE and the largest comprehensive cancer center in the nation. Burjeel Holdings will be instrumental in continuing VPS Healthcare's mission of delivering quality and inclusive medical care to people around the world.

Connecting care, scale, and community to benefit refugees from Ukraine

Dr. Shamsheer began his entrepreneurial career with a vision to ensure healthcare equity. In his journey towards fulfilling this vision, he has also focused on outreach through humanitarian efforts. Alongside the launch of Burjeel Holdings, Dr. Shamsheer, a highly regarded philanthropist, announced a commitment of 50 pediatric stem cell transplantations to support Ukraine as well as additional support on behalf of those who join the pledge of support at Burjeel House in Davos.

Dr. Shamsheer and VPS Healthcare have been at the forefront of many humanitarian initiatives over the last 15 years. In 2018, VPS Healthcare enabled the treatment of Yemeni war victims at its hospitals in India. The organization offered the '100 Free Heart Surgeries' initiative for those in need as a tribute to the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

"I am pleased to announce our commitment of support for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. This contribution is being made toward the important task of rebuilding a strong community in the war-torn region. We have seen that children, especially those undergoing cancer treatment, are suffering the most in this very unfortunate conflict. Burjeel Holdings will look to provide them with the care they desperately need," said Dr. Shamsheer.

VPS Healthcare announced the launch of Burjeel Holdings and its commitment to supporting the Ukrainian refugees at the Burjeel House on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos. The Burjeel House will convene intentional, collaborative dialogues on topics like catalyzing equitable health training, and advancing medical innovation.

Contact: M Unnikrishnan [emailprotected]

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UW Fitness Day aims to strengthen community and bone marrow registry – University of Washington

Administrative affairs | For UW employees | News releases | UW and the community

May 20, 2022

Participants at UW Fitness Day 2019 in Husky Stadium.University of Washington

The annual University of Washington Fitness Day returns as an in-person event on Monday, May 23. This years Fitness Day includes a fundraising and registration goal for Be The Match, the nations largest registry of bone marrow donors.

Fitness Day is a unique, campuswide workout to celebrate movement. The Seattle campus will host the event on the field at Husky Stadium, where participants will gather from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. and complete a circuit workout with 20 stations led by expert coaches from UW Athletics and community partners. Workout stations will include strength training, cardio bursts, active recovery and yoga. All fitness levels are welcome and encouraged to participate. Participants will receive a free, performance tech T-shirt.

From 3:30 to 5 p.m., the festivities move to Red Square for Get in the Game, a joint effort with Be The Match intended to increase awareness of its marrow and stem-cell donor registry and encourage students to sign up for the registry. UW athletes will lead the peer-to-peer education effort with Football, Mens Basketball, Womens Basketball, Mens Soccer, Womens Soccer, Cheer and Dance, and Track teams participating.

Alexes Harris, UW professor of sociology, is leading the push to increase the registry at the event. Six years ago, Harris was diagnosed with a form of leukemia that required a bone marrow transplant but couldnt find a match on the registry.

Be The Match couldnt find me a match because people of color are underrepresented on the registry and ancestry matters when matching, said Harris, who added that she was fortunate to enter a clinicaltrial at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and had a cord blood transplant that saved her life.I work with Be The Match in the name of people who did not find a match and were not able to live.

The goal is to raise $5,000 and sign up 500 new registry members. Participants are invited to make a $5 suggested donation when registering for UW Fitness Day.

After years of not being able to gather in person due to the pandemic, I am thrilled to see employees and students come together in community once again, said Mindy Kornberg, UW vice president for Human Resources. UW employees across campus and our medical centers work extraordinarily hard and this event is the epitome of centering employee well-being at work.

Fitness Day events are also being held Monday at Harborview Medical Center, UW Bothell and UW Tacoma. More information on all UW Fitness Day events at every location can be found on The Whole Us website.

For more information, contact Victor Balta at balta@uw.edu.

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UW Fitness Day aims to strengthen community and bone marrow registry - University of Washington

Cord Stem Cell Banking Market Trends Global Industry Analysis, Top Manufacturers, Growth, Opportunities & Forecast to 2028 The Daily Vale – The…

Global Cord Stem Cell Banking Marketsurvey report has been generated with the systematic gathering and evaluation of market information for industry which is presented in a form that explains various facts and figures to the business. This market research report contains a thorough analysis of the market and numerous related factors that range from market drivers, market restraints, market segmentation, opportunities, challenges, and market revenues to competitive analysis. It lends a hand to companies to take decisive actions to deal with threats in niche markets. A brilliant team of analysts, experts, statisticians, forecasters and economists has worked rigorously to generate an advanced and all-inclusive research market report.A research report is a professional and in-depth market report that focuses on primary and secondary drivers, market share, possible sales volume, leading segments and geographical analysis of A industry. It shows that the rise in market value is generally attributed to the rising growth of the application industries and the subsequent rise in demand of applications. This market analysis report gives an examination of various segments that are relied upon to witness the quickest growth amid the approximate forecast frame. The competitive landscape section of the A global business report brings into light a clear insight about the market share analysis of major industry players.

Thecord stem cell banking marketis expected to gain market growth in the forecast period of 2021 to 2028. Data Bridge Market Research analyses the market to grow at a CAGR of 22.2% in the above-mentioned forecast period. Increase in the number of parents storing their childs cord blood drives the cord stem cell banking market.

Get Sample Copy (Including Full TOC, List of Tables & Figures, and Chart) @https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/request-a-sample/?dbmr=Global-Cord-Stem-Cell-Banking-Market

TOP KEY PLAYERS ofGlobal Clinical Trials MarketCord Stem Cell Banking Market

CBR Systems, Inc

Cordlife

Cells4Life Group LLP

Cryo-Cell International, Inc.

Cryo-Save AG

Lifecell

StemCyte India Therapeutics Pvt. Ltd

Viacord

SMART CELLS PLUS.

Cryoviva India

Global Cord Blood Corporation

National Cord Blood Program

Vita 34, ReeLabs Pvt. Ltd.

Regrow Biosciences Pvt. Ltd.

ACROBiosystems.

Americord Registry LLC.

New York Blood Center

Maze Cord Blood

GoodCell.

AABB

Stem Cell Cryobank

New England Cryogenic Center, Inc.

Market Scenario ofGlobal Clinical Trials MarketCord Stem Cell Banking Market

Cord stem cells banking is defined as the storing of the cord blood cell contained in the umbilical cord and placenta of a newborn child. This cord blood contains the stem cells which can be used in future to treat disease such as leukemia, thalassemia, autoimmune diseases, and inherited metabolic disorders, and few others.

Increased acceptance of stem cell therapeutics is the vital factor escalating the market growth, also rise in the new applications of stem cells indiseasetreatment, rise in the spending on the management of chronic diseases, rise in the growth in awareness about stem cell therapeutics and increase in the mergers and acquisitions by prominent players are the major factors among others driving the cord stem cell banking market. Moreover, rise in the technological advancements and modernization in the healthcare devices and risingresearch and developmentactivities in the healthcare sector will further create new opportunities for cord stem cell banking market in the forecasted period of 2021-2028.

However, high operating cost of stem cell therapeutics and lack of awareness in many developing economies are the major factors among others which will obstruct the market growth, and will further challenge the growth of cord stem cell banking market in the forecast period mentioned above.

The cord stem cell banking market report provides details of new recent developments, trade regulations, import export analysis, production analysis, value chain optimization, market share, impact of domestic and localised market players, analyses opportunities in terms of emerging revenue pockets, changes in market regulations, strategic market growth analysis, market size, category market growths, application niches and dominance, product approvals, product launches, geographic expansions, technological innovations in the market. To gain more info on the cord stem cell banking market contact Data Bridge Market Research for anAnalyst Brief, our team will help you take an informed market decision to achieve market growth.

Cord Stem Cell Banking MarketScope and Market Size

The cord stem cell banking market is segmented on the basis of storage type, product type, service type, source and indication. The growth amongst these segments will help you analyse meagre growth segments in the industries, and provide the users with valuable market overview and market insights to help them in making strategic decisions for identification of core market applications.

On the basis ofstorage type, the cord stem cell banking market is segmented into private banks, hybrid banks and public banks.

Based onproduct type, the cord stem cell banking market is segmented into cord blood, cord blood and cord tissue.

Based on service type, the cord stem cell banking market is segmented into collection & transportation, processing, analysis and storage.

Based on source, the cord stem cell banking market is segmented into umbilical cord blood, bone marrow, peripheral blood stem and menstrual blood

The cord stem cell banking market is also segmented on the basis of role of administration into cerebral palsy, thalassemia, leukemia, diabetes and autism.

This Report Answers the Following Questions:

What are the most significant market trends, challenges, and opportunities? How many segments will the market consist of? Which region is expected to dominate the market in terms of revenue? Which segment is likely to lead in terms of share in the coming years? What are the new strategies adopted by key players to strengthen their position?

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To Gain More Insights into the Market Analysis, Browse Summary of the Research [emailprotected]https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-cord-stem-cell-banking-market

This Market Research Report Highlights:

Assessment of the market Premium Insights Competitive Landscape COVID Impact Analysis Historic Data, Estimates and Forecast Company Profiles Global and Regional Dynamics

Scope of Report:

Cord Stem Cell Banking Market survey report range from latest trends, market segmentation, new market entry, industry forecasting, target market analysis, future directions, opportunity identification, strategic analysis, insights to innovation. This report explains several market factors such as market estimates and forecasts, entry strategies, opportunity analysis, market positioning, competitive landscape, product positioning, market assessment and viability studies. Market drivers, market restraints, opportunities and challenges are also evaluated in this report under market overview which gives helpful insights to businesses for taking right moves. A market document is bestowed with full loyalty to provide the best service and recommendations.

A portion of the central issues canvassed in the report are: -Investigation of contenders -Whats Next -Market Data Forecast -Opportunity and Risks Assessment -Market Dynamics and Trends

Report Coverage- -It offers an all-encompassing business sector evaluation that remembers data for various market portions like innovation, arts, stage application, and others. -It incorporates an itemized investigation of the COVID-19 pandemics effect available. -It features different procedures taken on by significant market players to get development. -It features the most recent industry advancements. -It features market development surveyed by various topographical areas

Complete Report Details with Table of Content and [emailprotected]https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/toc/?dbmr=Global-Cord-Stem-Cell-Banking-Market

Cord Stem Cell Banking MarketCountry Level Analysis

The cord stem cell banking market is analysed and market size insights and trends are provided by country, storage type, product type, service type, source and indication as referenced above.

The countries covered in the cord stem cell banking market report are U.S., Canada and Mexico in North America, Germany, France, U.K., Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, Russia, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Rest of Europe in Europe, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Rest of Asia-Pacific (APAC) in the Asia-Pacific (APAC), Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, South Africa, Egypt, Israel, Rest of Middle East and Africa (MEA) as a part of Middle East and Africa (MEA), Brazil, Argentina and Rest of South America as part of South America.

North America dominates the cord stem cell banking market due to rise in the presence of major market participants in the US, ongoing approval of stem cell lines for disease treatment, and increasing awareness among citizens in this region. Asia-Pacific is the expected region in terms of growth in cord stem cell banking market due to rise in the older population along with as surge in prevalence of chronic diseases, and rising per capita healthcare expenditure in this region.

The country section of the cord stem cell banking market report also provides individual market impacting factors and changes in regulation in the market domestically that impacts the current and future trends of the market. Data points such as consumption volumes, production sites and volumes, import export analysis, price trend analysis, cost of raw materials, down-stream and upstream value chain analysis are some of the major pointers used to forecast the market scenario for individual countries. Also, presence and availability of global brands and their challenges faced due to large or scarce competition from local and domestic brands, impact of domestic tariffs and trade routes are considered while providing forecast analysis of the country data.

Healthcare Infrastructure growth Installed base and New Technology Penetration

The cord stem cell banking market also provides you with detailed market analysis for every country growth in healthcare expenditure for capital equipments, installed base of different kind of products for cord stem cell banking market, impact of technology using life line curves and changes in healthcare regulatory scenarios and their impact on the cord stem cell banking market. The data is available for historic period 2010 to 2019.

Competitive Landscape and Cord Stem Cell Banking MarketShare Analysis

The cord stem cell banking market competitive landscape provides details by competitor. Details included are company overview, company financials, revenue generated, market potential, investment in research and development, new market initiatives, global presence, production sites and facilities, production capacities, company strengths and weaknesses, product launch, product width and breadth, application dominance. The above data points provided are only related to the companies focus related to cord stem cell banking market.

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Global Cord Stem Cell Banking Marketbusiness report is a meticulous analysis of the existing scenario of the market, which covers several market dynamics. Competent data and brilliant forecasting techniques used in this market report are synonymous with accuracy and correctness. The report endows with the plentiful insights and business solutions that will support staying ahead of the competition. The most accurate way to forecast what the future holds is to understand the trend today and hence this report has been structured by chewing over numerous fragments of the present and upcoming market scenario. The world-class market research report is framed with the most excellent and sophisticated tools of collecting, recording, estimating, and analyzing market data..

The various aspects of A market survey report range from the latest trends, market segmentation, new market entry, industry forecasting, target market analysis, future directions, opportunity identification, strategic analysis, insights to innovation. This report explains several market factors such as market estimates and forecasts, entry strategies, opportunity analysis, market positioning, competitive landscape, product positioning, market assessment, and viability studies. Market drivers, market restraints, opportunities, and challenges are also evaluated in this report under market overview which gives helpful insights to businesses for taking right moves.

Key Highlights of Report: -Overview of key market forces propelling and restraining market growth -Offers a clear understanding of the competitive landscape and key product segments -An analysis of strategies of major competitors -Detailed analyses of industry trends -A well-defined technological growth map with an impact-analysis -Provides profiles of major competitors of the market. -Details of their operations, product and services. -Recent developments and key financial metrics.

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Cord Stem Cell Banking Market Trends Global Industry Analysis, Top Manufacturers, Growth, Opportunities & Forecast to 2028 The Daily Vale - The...

Hollings researcher studies how yogic breathing may reduce side effects of cancer treatment – Medical University of South Carolina

"Breathe in from the nose and slowly exhale through the nose.

Class is in session inside the MUSC Wellness Centers auditorium as Sundar Balasubramanian, Ph.D., leads a yogic breathing class for participants in Survivors' Fit Club, a group for breast cancer survivors to find community and improve their overall fitness and well-being. Balasubramanian, a world-renowned expert in the field, is an MUSC Hollings Cancer Centerresearcher, cell biologist, certified yoga therapist and assistant professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at MUSC.

He knows how important yogic breathing can be for overall health, especially for cancer patients and survivors. The Survivors' Fit Club session is just one of several programs and pilot studies that Balasubramanian is leading, seeking to quantify the benefits of this practice.

There are a lot of long-term chronic health issues that stem from cancer treatment, he said. We are looking for ways to improve aspects of survivorship that work in combination with the traditional standard of care. Breathing exercises can alter how we feel emotionally and how certain physiological changes are occurring. For example, breathing exercises can improve blood circulation, which can then help you keep a steady heart rate and create a sense of being energetic and relaxed.

Research is showing a wide range of potential benefits, including:

While there are a variety of yogic breathing exercises, the core purpose remains the same a slow, intentional inhale and exhale from the nose to center the participant and promote mindfulness. Balasubramanian also teaches participants how to incorporate an ocean sound from the throat as yet another breathing exercise.

One of his studies is looking at the impacts of yogic breathing in breast cancer patients. The 12-week study is open to breast cancer patients who have received radiation therapy within the last six months. It will continue recruiting patients through May 2023, Balasubramanian said.

Participants will receive a unique link to access an online yogic breathing app called Kumbi, which translates to to gather and hold, and complete three 10-minute-long exercises three times a day, five days a week. The telehealth aspect of the study allows breast cancer patients across the country who have recently undergone radiation therapy to join.

Everyone had to learn how to walk. Its something most of us do every day, he said. The same applies to breathing exercises. A lot of people say they know about breathing exercises, and some have even done a class on it. But how often are you doing it? Is it daily? How many times a day? Routine is important.

Balasubramanian said participants will complete questionnaires that will measure factors like stress levels, anxiety, sleep and quality of life. He hypothesizes that if you improve those factors, youll improve the overall health of the patient and improve the quality of her life.

Participants will be assigned to one of the two mindfulness groups. One will follow one traditional mindfulness exercise, and the other group will focus on yoga breathing exercises, he explained. Participants will engage with others taking part in the study and can also practice their mindfulness exercises on their own.

Balasubramanian isnt stopping with breast cancer patients. There are plans for him to work with the South Carolina Cancer Disparities Research Center (SC CADRE), a collaboration between MUSC Hollings Cancer Center and South Carolina State University, to develop newer yogic breathing tools (apps) for patients with breast, prostate and colorectal cancer who are receiving chemotherapy and radiation to study disparities in cancer outcomes.

Were very excited to have him on board, said Marvella Ford, Ph.D., co-director of SC CADRE.

She noted that Black people, whether with or without cancer, tend to have higher levels of inflammatory biomarkers than white people.

If you go into a cancer diagnosis already having these high levels of inflammatory biomarkers, it affects the treatment outcomes, she explained. Hes really making a connection between the act of yogic breathing and the levels of these biomarkers by showing that participating in a yogic breathing intervention substantially reduces the levels of these biomarkers and decreases bio-inflammation, which has been linked to improved cancer treatment outcomes.

Balasubramanian has also taken the yogic breathing exercises to the American Cancer Societys Hope Lodge in Charleston. The Hope Lodge, across the street from Hollings and the MUSC campus, provides free lodging for cancer patients who are in treatment but live more than 40 miles away from the hospital. There, Balasubramanian offers weekly 20-minute sessions to both patients and caregivers.

In a voluntary, anonymous survey of previous participants at the Hope Lodge, Balasubramanian found that nearly all participants reported the breathing exercises improved their stress levels. The yogic breathing also exceeded participants expectations in improving their appetites. Overall, 90% reported being very satisfied with the sessions, and 83% said they intended to continue the exercises at home.

In the study of breast cancer patients who have undergone radiation, participants will be asked to provide a total of eight saliva samples. In our research, weve found that people in a more relaxed state after yogic breathing produce more saliva, he said. Saliva isnt just digestive fluid. It also contains neurohormones, growth factors and proteins needed for our well-being.

Balasubramanian said research has shown that saliva contains tumor suppressors that could impact how cancer forms and grows. He also said that saliva can be examined for biomarkers that indicate stress.

Balasubramanian said these studies hit close to home, having grown up in India where yoga is a common practice. In 2015, he was asked to share his research and expertise on yogic breathing and overall health during a TEDxCharleston talk. Since then, hes been spreading awareness about the health benefits of yoga breathing.

Our goal is to use the findings from this study to expand it to all other cancer types at any stage, Balasubramanian said. Yoga breathing is something everyone can do, regardless of their physical abilities. We hope this provides our cancer patients and survivors another resource to lead a healthier life.

In the future, Balasubramanian said the goal is for the Kumbi app to be commercialized to expand its benefit for all patients.

For more information or to enroll in the breast cancer patients study, click here.

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Hollings researcher studies how yogic breathing may reduce side effects of cancer treatment - Medical University of South Carolina

Penn researchers discover new cell type in human lung with regenerative properties – EurekAlert

Findings shine light on underpinnings of COPD, pave new direction for future research on treatments

image:Human ES cell derived RASC (respiratory airway secretory cell transitioning to an Alveolar type 2 cell over time in culture view more

Credit: Penn Medicine

PHILADELPHIA A new type of cell that resides deep within human lungs and may play a key role in human lung diseases has been discovered by researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.

The researchers, who report their findings today in Nature, analyzed human lung tissue to identify the new cells, which they call respiratory airway secretory cells (RASCs). The cells line tiny airway branches, deep in the lungs, near the alveoli structures where oxygen is exchanged for carbon dioxide. The scientists showed that RASCs have stem-cell-like properties enabling them to regenerate other cells that are essential for the normal functioning of alveoli. They also found evidence that cigarette smoking and the common smoking-related ailment called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can disrupt the regenerative functions of RASCshinting that correcting this disruption could be a good way to treat COPD.

COPD is a devastating and common disease, yet we really dont understand the cellular biology of why or how some patients develop it. Identifying new cell types, in particular new progenitor cells, that are injured in COPD could really accelerate the development of new treatments, said study first author Maria Basil, MD, PhD, an instructor of Pulmonary Medicine.

COPD typically features progressive damage to and loss of alveoli, exacerbated by chronic inflammation. It is estimated to affect approximately 10 percent of people in some parts of the United States and causes about 3 million deaths every year around the world. Patients often are prescribed steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and/or oxygen therapy, but these treatments can only slow the disease process rather than stop or reverse it. Progress in understanding COPD has been gradual in part because micethe standard lab animalhave lungs that lack key features of human lungs.

In the new study, Morrisey and his team uncovered evidence of RASCs while examining gene-activity signatures of lung cells sampled from healthy human donors. They soon recognized that RASCs, which dont exist in mouse lungs, are secretory cells that reside near alveoli and produce proteins needed for the fluid lining of the airway.

With studies like this were starting to get a sense, at the cell-biology level, of what is really happening in this very prevalent disease, said senior author Edward Morrisey, PhD, the Robinette Foundation Professor of Medicine, a professor of Cell and Developmental Biology, and director of the Penn-CHOP Lung Biology Institute at Penn Medicine.

Observations of gene-activity similarities between RASCs and an important progenitor cell in alveoli called AT2 cells led the team to a further discovery: RASCs, in addition to their secretory function, serve as predecessors for AT2 cellsregenerating them to maintain the AT2 population and keep alveoli healthy.

AT2 cells are known to become abnormal in COPD and other lung diseases, and the researchers found evidence that defects in RASCs might be an upstream cause of those abnormalities. In lung tissue from people with COPD, as well as from people without COPD who have a history of smoking, they observed many AT2 cells that were altered in a way that hinted at a faulty RASC-to-AT2 transformation.

More research is needed, Morrisey said, but the findings point to the possibility of future COPD treatments that work by restoring the normal RASC-to-AT2 differentiation processor even by replenishing the normal RASC population in damaged lungs.

The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health (HL148857, HL087825, HL134745, HL132999, 5T32HL007586-35, 5R03HL135227-02, K23 HL121406, K08 HL150226, DK047967, HL152960, R35HL135816, P30DK072482, U01HL152978), the BREATH Consortium/Longfunds of the Netherlands, the Parker B. Francis Foundation, and GlaxoSmithKline.

###

Penn Medicineis one of the worlds leading academic medical centers, dedicated to the related missions of medical education, biomedical research, and excellence in patient care. Penn Medicine consists of theRaymond and Ruth Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (founded in 1765 as the nations first medical school) and theUniversity of Pennsylvania Health System, which together form a $8.9 billion enterprise.

The Perelman School of Medicine has been ranked among the top medical schools in the United States for more than 20 years, according toU.S. News & World Report's survey of research-oriented medical schools. The School is consistently among the nation's top recipients of funding from the National Institutes of Health, with $496 million awarded in the 2020 fiscal year.

The University of Pennsylvania Health Systems patient care facilities include: the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Penn Presbyterian Medical Centerwhich are recognized as one of the nations top Honor Roll hospitals byU.S. News & World ReportChester County Hospital; Lancaster General Health; Penn Medicine Princeton Health; and Pennsylvania Hospital, the nations first hospital, founded in 1751. Additional facilities and enterprises include Good Shepherd Penn Partners, Penn Medicine at Home, Lancaster Behavioral Health Hospital, and Princeton House Behavioral Health, among others.

Penn Medicine is powered by a talented and dedicated workforce of more than 44,000 people. The organization also has alliances with top community health systems across both Southeastern Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey, creating more options for patients no matter where they live.

Penn Medicine is committed to improving lives and health through a variety of community-based programs and activities. In fiscal year 2020, Penn Medicine provided more than $563 million to benefit our community.

Cells

Human distal airways contain a multipotent secretory cell that can regenerate alveoli

30-Mar-2022

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.

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Penn researchers discover new cell type in human lung with regenerative properties - EurekAlert

Bridging or perpeatuating health inequities? ScienceDaily – Verve Times

Health inequities among Black Indigenous People of Color, immigrant and low-income communities is driven largely by inadequate healthcare access. Telehealth offers an opportunity to increase healthcare access and reduce health inequities. However, according to researchers from Boston University Questrom School of Business, Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM), and Boston Medical Center (BMC), telehealth has unwittingly become a double-edged sword, whereby the technology with potential to reduce health inequities also holds the key to exacerbate structural inequities.

Using qualitative data and our own experiences as front line primary care physicians we discovered that while digital access is necessary, it is not sufficient in redressing disparate engagement with telehealth, says corresponding author Rebecca G. Mishuris, MD, MPH, MS, assistant professor of medicine at BUSM, and primary care physician and Chief Medical Information Officer of the BMC Health System.

According to the researchers, a key component of these structural inequities is the digital divide, driven partly by digital redlining. Digital redlining is the modern day manifestation of redlining that perpetuates health inequities and structural racism by maintaining barriers to technological access, further perpetuating lack of healthcare access.

Based on their experience as well as data about their patients access to healthcare, virtual and otherwise, Mishuris and her colleagues theorize that two additional barriers to equitable telehealth exist: digital fluency, the ability to use digital tools efficiently and effectively; and the capacity for health advocacy, a patients ability to advocate for their own health needs.

Without addressing these critical, less often discussed elements of telehealth implementation, it is our belief that telehealth will fall short of its promise and rather than mitigate health inequities, will perpetuate health inequities in the very communities that stand to benefit most from its implementation, says co-author Katherine Gergen Barnett, MD, clinical associate professor of family medicine at BUSM and Vice Chair of Primary Care Innovation and Transformation at BMC.

In an effort to overcome the barriers of device and broadband access, digital fluency and health advocacy to mitigate current inequities in digital health engagement, the researchers propose a three-pronged approach of creating federal and state policies to democratize access to telehealth. By establishing platform standards for accessing telehealth, and supporting societal and health system investments to increase health literacy, advocacy and technology fluency, we can begin to address the disparities in telehealth engagement and healthcare access, says Mishuris.

Collaborators include Jayakanth Srinivasan, PhD, research associate professor at Boston Universitys Questrom School of Business; Charles T. Williams, MD, BMC/BUSM family medicine; Alexa Bragg, BS, BMC/BUSM family medicine; Afi M. Semenya, MD, MPH, BMC/BUSM family medicine; Marielle Baldwin, MD, MPH, BMC/BUSM family medicine; Jessica Howard, MA, MPH, BMC/BUSM family medicine and Stephen A. Wilson, MD, MPH, BMC/BUSM family medicine.

These findings appear as a Perspective in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.

Funding was provided by the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research.

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Bridging or perpeatuating health inequities? ScienceDaily - Verve Times

No Good Can Come From Downplaying Covid – The Nation

US President Joe Biden delivers the State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress at the US Capitol on March 1.

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Throughout the 21st century, Democrats have identified as the party of science, and that has served them well. Against the threat posed by Republicans who deny climate change, thwart stem cell research, and ridicule infectious disease protocols for public spaces, Democrats have argued that Americans need to respect scientific data and the health and safety standards that protect us all. Yet as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to vex the United States, with the death toll moving toward 1 million, Democrats lack a coherent strategy for projecting their seriousness about tackling a lingering health care challengewhich is one variant away from again becoming a crisisand for holding to account those who failed to take it seriously in the first place.1

Thats a dangerous approach in a midterm election year where the pandemic and the social and economic chaos that have followed from it will continue to define our lives. People will still need to be vaccinated and boosted, mandates will still be required in some regions, and concern about inflationmuch of it rooted in patterns of profiteering that began during the pandemicwill be a front-burner issue.2

President Biden and his team have, for the most part, brought better intentions and better management to the fight against Covid-19. Biden has shown the respect for scientists that Donald Trump eschewed; and Dr. Ashish Jha, the White Houses incoming Covid response coordinator, has a track record of following the data and advocating for public health equity. But a year into Bidens presidency, the Democrats have not delivered on his proposal to Build Back Better and continue to shy away from the logical response to a public health crisis of such magnitude: developing a single-payer Medicare for All plan so that our health care system serves patients rather than profits. Nor have they adopted a serious approach to investigating all the reasonsTrumps lies, inadequate workplace protections, vaccine skepticismfor why the United States has had a higher death rate than comparably wealthy countries. And now, with so much left undone, Democratic governors are busy lifting mask mandates and optimistically suggesting weve entered some ill-defined next phase of the pandemic.3

Stephen Morse, a professor of epidemiology at Columbia University Medical Center, has warned against complacency as we decide we no longer need masks, making it harder to take action when the next variant comes along. Thats not a radical view. A majority of Americans think mask mandates should be maintained wherever cases are high, while only 21 percent indicated in a February poll that they thought the US should open up and get back to life as usual with no mandates or requirements. Polls from around the country also show that local vaccine mandates are popular, often gaining 70 percent support or higher.4

Americans are right to remain worried about the pandemic. One period earlier this March had roughly twice the death toll of the same period last March. Numbers have been surging and declining and then surging again for two years. Historically, even during this pandemic, every time we thought we could discard our masks, another variant came along to disturb our complacencyDelta, now Omicron and perhaps its relative BA.2and we were almost right back where we started, Morse noted. Thats a scientific fact Democrats need to get better at discussing.5

Even as Biden generally gets the policies right, he misses practically and rhetorically. As an example, the presidents Covid-19 preparedness plan has sound components: a continued emphasis on the importance of vaccinations; a proposal to rapidly deploy vaccines where necessary; a commitment to keep vaccines, testing, and masks available for free; and a promise to prioritize treatment for immunocompromised people. Yet the plan subtly shifts more of the burden onto individuals, especially those who are most vulnerable, abandoning recognition of the pandemic as a societal challenge. And in his State of the Union address in March, Biden seemed unfocused and, at times, desperatesuch as when he said, Lets use this moment to reset. So, stop looking at Covid as a partisan dividing line. See it for what it is: a god-awful disease.6

Thats never going to happen during a midterm election year in which Republicans have already signaled that they will exploit every opening to reclaim Congress. They can be counted on to make the most of the fact that, as Biden has acknowledged, Americans are tired, frustrated, and exhausted. At the same time, they will blame Democrats for rising inflation and for the chaos that unfolds if a new variant spreads.7

For Democrats, no good can come from downplaying lingering threats. The president and his party should aggressively and unapologetically renew their emphasis on following scienceeven when that requires telling hard truthsand on challenging pandemic price gouging by corporations that keep announcing record profits while hiking costs for consumers. Instead of sending confused signals, which invariably allow Republicans to control the narrative, Democrats should bring clarity to the Covid conversation by highlighting the stark inequities that the pandemic continues to reveal and by working to address them. They should demonstrate an expanded commitment to public health and workplace safety and be unequivocal advocates for needed components of the Build Back Better plan that the GOP rejected. The Democratic leadership should never let the American people forget that top Republicans have repeatedly failed to respect science and the common goodand will continue to do so if they prevail in the midterms.8

People can handle the truth if it is delivered consistently and seriously. Biden should borrow a page from Franklin Roosevelt, who during the Great Depression used everything from national speaking tours to fireside chats to give Americans the facts about hard times. With so much on the line, Biden and the Democrats must communicate a whole lot more about the pandemic challenges that remainand about the Republican charlatans who would play politics with life and death.9

Continued here:
No Good Can Come From Downplaying Covid - The Nation