Epidemiology, longitudinal treatment patterns and outcomes of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in Israel

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a common hematologic malignancy.
• Understanding real-world epidemiology, treatment patterns, and outcomes is crucial for improving patient care.
• Data from large healthcare provider databases offer valuable insights into disease management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the epidemiology of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in Israel.
• To analyze treatment patterns and patient outcomes within a large healthcare provider network.
• To identify trends in overall survival (OS) over time.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of newly-diagnosed CLL patients (1999-2017) from Maccabi Healthcare Services database (2.3 million members).
• Patient follow-up through March 31, 2018.
• Statistical analysis of incidence, overall survival, treatment initiation, and specific first-line therapies.

Main Results:

• 1857 newly-diagnosed CLL patients were included; annual incidence was 5.82 per 100,000.
• Median overall survival (OS) was 12.7 years; approximately one-third initiated treatment within 5 years.
• A trend for improved OS was observed in patients under 70 treated from 2009-2017 versus 1999-2008; common first-line treatments included FCR, bendamustine-rituximab, and obinutuzumab-based regimens.

Conclusions:

• CLL incidence in Israel is comparable to other developed countries.
• Real-world data suggest a potential trend of improved survival in recent years, particularly for younger patients (<70 years).
• Further research is warranted to confirm survival trends and evaluate the impact of novel therapies.