Multiple Myeloma Care in Western Kenya
2026-03-12 19:00 - 20:30 (Africa/Nairobi)
Event Title: The Journey of Multiple Myeloma Care in Western Kenya
Accreditation: CPD Accredited

Date: 12th March 2026
Time: 7 PM – 8:30 PM EAT
Organization: KESHO (Kenya Society of Haematology & Oncology)

Moderator:

Dr. Matilda Ongondi: Consultant Physician and Clinical Haemato-Oncologist, Kenyatta National Hospital.

Speakers

Dr. Teresa Lotodo: Senior Lecturer & Consultant Pathologist (AP/CP)Topic: Modern Diagnostic Paradigms in Multiple Myeloma: From Morphology to Molecular Risk Stratification
Dr. Rohini Radia: Consultant in BMT and HaematologyTopic: Contemporary Management of Multiple Myeloma: Sequencing, Cellular Therapies and Risk-Adapted Strategies
Dr. Beatrice Melly: Clinical Haematologist, Moi Teaching and Referral HospitalTopic: Building Sustainable Myeloma Care Pathways: Access, Infrastructure and Multidisciplinary Integration
Hightlights

This session examined how multiple myeloma care is evolving within the Kenyan context, bringing together perspectives on diagnostics, treatment advances and system-level delivery.
A central theme was the contrast between rapid global therapeutic progress and the realities of access and infrastructure in low- and middle-income settings. While survival outcomes have improved significantly with the introduction of proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory agents and anti-CD38 therapies, translating these gains into routine practice remains uneven.
The discussion highlighted the importance of accurate and timely diagnosis, with a shift from morphology-based approaches towards molecular and cytogenetic risk stratification to guide treatment decisions.
From a clinical perspective, modern management is increasingly risk-adapted, incorporating quadruplet induction regimens, autologous stem cell transplantation and maintenance strategies. Emerging therapies, including CAR-T cells and bispecific antibodies are redefining outcomes in relapsed disease, though access remains limited in many settings.
At a systems level, the AMPATH multiple myeloma program was presented as a model of how coordinated care can be built through partnerships, integrating clinical care, training and research within a learning health system. The approach emphasizes improving access, strengthening diagnostic and treatment infrastructure, and embedding multidisciplinary care pathways to support patients across the disease course.
Across the session, a consistent message emerged: advancing myeloma care requires not only better therapies, but systems capable of delivering them.
Key Takeaways

Myeloma outcomes are improving with novel and combination therapies.
Accurate diagnosis and risk stratification are central to management.
Standard care includes quadruplet induction, ASCT and maintenance therapy.
CAR-T and bispecific antibodies are reshaping relapsed disease care.
Sustainable progress depends on access, infrastructure and integrated care models.
