Limited Access to Blinatumomab in Morocco: Challenges and Implications

Nabiha El Abdi1,2, Yasmine El Ouafa2,1, Fatima Azzahra Lahlou3

  • 1Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Biothechnology and Health, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Casablanca, MAR.

Cureus
|July 10, 2026
PubMed

Recent advances in hematology, particularly immunotherapy, have significantly improved outcomes in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Blinatumomab, a CD19-directed bispecific T-cell engager, has demonstrated substantial efficacy in relapsed or refractory B-cell ALL, achieving high rates of minimal residual disease negativity and improving overall survival. However, there are still disparities in how these therapeutic advancements are incorporated into standard clinical practice across the globe. Financial obstacles, restricted drug availability, and regulatory delays often impede access to novel agents like blinatumomab in Morocco and other middle-income countries. As a result, despite the mounting evidence in favor of immunotherapy-driven approaches, many patients still receive traditional chemotherapy. This editorial highlights the gap between international standards of care and real-world practice in Morocco and underscores the urgent need to improve equitable access to life-saving hematologic therapies.

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