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Race, genes, and other things affect how well BMT works

Age<75 years
Number of Participants26,945
Research GoalImprove Quality of LifeImprove Survival
Both race and genes may affect how well blood or marrow transplant (BMT) works, according to a new study. 

Scientists studied 27,000 people who got BMT during 1988 to 2016 in North America or Japan. Everyone got BMT from a donor who was not related to them. 

People’s survival after transplant was linked to both their race and their genes. The researchers looked specifically at human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes. 

Previous studies have shown that BMT works best when: 
  • Donor and patient have fully matched HLA genes 
  • Patient has TT leader HLA-B genes 
  • Patient has FEY-negative HLA-DRB1 genes 

These ideal circumstances were most common for Japanese patients. They lived longer than White American patients. In turn, White American patients lived longer than Black and African American patients. 

Keep in mind 

This study did not look at social and economic inequities. However, other studies have shown that lower income and poor health insurance coverage also can contribute to worse health. However, there are now more programs available to help people afford BMT and other healthcare. 

This study did find that Black and African American patients now live longer after BMT than they did years ago. 

What’s next 

More research is needed to look at genetics beyond the HLA genes, as well as to find new therapies to help people with high-risk types of cancer. Also, research is needed to consider modern therapies, such as post-transplant cyclophosphamide

Ask your doctor 

What treatments are the best choice for me? What programs can help me pay for BMT? 

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