New Clinical Trial for Patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and side-effects of an intensive program using multiple chemotherapy drugs that has been designed for children but is now being used in young adults up to age 40. We hope to improve the outcome of adolescents and young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

We will compare the outcomes of subjects treated by adult hematologists and oncologists on this study with the outcomes of similar subjects treated with the same chemotherapy program by pediatric oncologists (doctors who specialize in the treatment of cancer in children).

Better results have been reported when 16-20 year old subjects with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) were treated in a pediatric clinic with a pediatric chemotherapy program. One of the important goals of this study is to deliver the treatment with as little delay or variation in treatment doses as possible. We are testing whether or not young adults have better outcomes if all of the prescribed therapy is given on time.

For more information about this study, contact Tania Curcio, RN at 212-746-2571.