Socioeconomic Factors Hinder Access to AML Stem Cell Transplants

A study by Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center highlights how socioeconomic factors hinder access to bone marrow transplants for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients, leading to higher mortality rates in disadvantaged communities. The research, presented at the American Society of Hematology's annual meeting, found that patients from areas with lower education levels and higher poverty rates were less likely to receive transplants. However, survival rates post-transplant were similar across socioeconomic backgrounds, suggesting access barriers rather than treatment efficacy are the main issue.