Dear all,
Some of you may already know of, or may have already been approached to participate in a 3 month study conducted by Dr. Marin at the Hammersmith. I was asked to take part as I have been taking Imatinib for over 4 years. I'm not sure if you can ask to participate, but no harm trying if you are interested. I know that they will be looking at 100 patients with CML over the next 18 months who have been taking the drug for a long time.
The study is to look at the development of late side effects, compliance to treatment, and quality of life issues. In short, when I go back in July the idea is that I take 3 months supply of Imatinib with me. It will be counted and then handed back and taken as normal for the following 3 months. At the beginning and end, the level of Imatinib in the blood will be tested. So will the effects on certain organs including the heart, bone, vision, and fertility (in men)
I am happy to help with the study, and will obviously benefit from a bit of an MOT. They will perform an electrocardiogram and echocardiogram (ultrasound scan) of the heart.
Anyway, hope this is of interest and something you may want to discuss with your consultants. I will let you know the results of mine in the future.
Best Wishes,
Phil.