Defining global priorities in hematopoietic transplantation and cellular therapy: a statement paper from EBMT Global ComMittee.
TL;DR
The EBMT community strongly supports an expanded global role focused on education, capacity building, and collaboration in underserved regions, and support for LMIC capacity building.
Abstract
Hematopoietic cell transplantation, cellular and gene therapies, and (CAR)-T cells have revolutionized outcomes in hematologic disorders. However, major disparities persist in their availability, accessibility, and affordability, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The EBMT Global Committee aims to address these inequalities. A structured survey was distributed to EBMT members to identify regional and thematic priorities, assess current infrastructure, and assess willingness to contribute to global initiatives. Responses were analyzed descriptively and served as the basis for the current statement paper. A total of 145 responses from 43 countries were collected. Most respondents (67.1%) reported working in JACIE- or FACT-accredited centers. The highest priority regions for EBMT outreach were Eastern Europe (non-EU) (43.9%), Latin America (38.2%), and Africa (33.5%), followed by the Middle East (29.5%). The leading thematic priorities were education and training (74.3%), scientific collaboration (56.0%), and registry development (43.4%). Most respondents expressed willingness to actively contribute, particularly in educational activities (59.7%). Qualitative responses emphasized the need for practical guidelines, mentorship programs, telemedicine, virtual discussion/clinical rounds on difficult cases, and support for LMIC capacity building. The EBMT community strongly supports an expanded global role focused on education, capacity building, and collaboration in underserved regions.