Every year, the American Society of Hematology (ASH) gathers experts from around the world to share the latest research in blood cancers. At the 2025 meeting, several studies revealed promising findings for patients with multiple myeloma, from early-stage interventions to advanced treatment options. These results highlight ways to improve outcomes, manage side effects, and explore lifestyle strategies that may support overall health.
Here’s a closer look at the key takeaways that patients with multiple myeloma should know.
1) New antibody therapy shows strong early results for newly diagnosed myeloma
Early results from the LINKER-MM4 trial show that the bispecific antibody linvoseltamab (Lynozyfic) is highly effective as a first treatment for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. Most patients responded quickly, with many achieving deep remission and minimal residual disease negativity, meaning no cancer cells were detectable. This therapy could offer a simpler alternative to the multi-drug regimens typically used in frontline treatment. The results are encouraging for both transplant-eligible and ineligible patients, with all participants in the study remaining progression-free so far.
2) New drug combo shows major benefits for relapsed multiple myeloma
A new study shows that combining teclistamab (Tecvayli) with subcutaneous (given underneath the fatty tissue of the skin) daratumumab (Darzalex Faspro) is highly effective for people whose multiple myeloma has returned or not responded to previous treatments. Patients on this combination lived longer, had slower disease progression, and achieved deeper responses than those on standard daratumumab-based therapy. Nearly 9 out of 10 participants had no detectable cancer cells. These results offer hope for a stronger, more effective option for second-line and later treatment in multiple myeloma.
3) New study reveals how to better manage delayed side effects of CAR T therapy
Some serious side effects from CAR T therapy for multiple myeloma, such as nerve problems and gut inflammation, share a common immune cause and can lead to infections. A recent study shows that a short course of steroids while on CAR T therapy can help prevent complications. Researchers are also exploring new targeted strategies that could control CAR T activity without steroids. These steps aim to make CAR T therapy safer while still fighting the cancer effectively.
4) Dietary changes could make a big difference
Studies show that eating a high-fiber diet may help patients with blood cancers. In people with early or precursor multiple myeloma, a fiber-rich diet improved gut health, metabolic markers, and inflammation. For patients undergoing stem cell transplants, higher fiber intake was linked to better survival and healthier gut bacteria. These findings suggest that simple dietary changes, like adding vegetables, fruit, and whole grains to your diet, could support treatment, improve outcomes, and help protect the immune system.
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