Peter Wehrwein

Many gene therapies promise life-changing effects, but without long-term data it remains to be seen how long the benefits last.

Four studies were highlighted that amplified the 3 components of using genetic testing in cancer treatment and prevention: (1) understanding the germline component of a tumor test, (2) broadening access to genetic counselors with video sessions, and (3) making sure risk assessment of each patient is accurate, so that patients do not have unnecessary surgeries.

The talk by Ned Sharpless, MD, director of the National Cancer Institute, preceded presentations on some of the earliest findings about the effects of COVID-19 on cancer: It appears that patients treated with chemotherapy for lung or thoracic cancer shortly before being diagnosed with COVID-19 face a higher risk of death, and so do patients with cancer who take the combination of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and azithromycin.

The benefit was especially pronounced for Hispanics, the researchers reported.

Results of a study comparing apixaban with low-molecular-weight heparin as a treatment to prevent recurrent blood clots in patients with cancer may assuage some of the concern about the bleeding risk associated with direct-acting oral anticoagulants.