Advanced Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma Management in East and Southeast Asia: Real-World Challenges and Aspirations of the Asian Lymphoma Study Group

Abstract

Purpose: The management of advanced classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) poses a major challenge in Asia, given disparities in health care resources and the variability in health care systems across the region. This article reviews the practice landscape for advanced cHL in East and Southeast Asia (hereafter referred to as Asia), offers detailed perspectives on the challenges faced by treating physicians, and proposes solutions to improve patient outcomes.

Methods: At the Singapore Lymphoma Scientific Symposium 2024, a panel of lymphoma experts from 10 countries/territories across Asia convened to discuss local cHL management practices. Discussions were supplemented by perspectives from an expert from the United States and a review of published literature on HL in Asia in 2014-2024. This article summarizes meeting discussions and reports relevant aspects of Asian practice preferences for advanced cHL.

Results: In Asia, cHL management is hindered by the lack of local guidelines and survivorship programs, challenges in diagnosis and staging because of a lack of resources and funding, and limited access to efficacious novel drugs. This is of particular concern in vulnerable patient populations such as the elderly. To uplift the standard of care for patients with cHL locally, greater cross-regional learning and collaboration could be explored to enhance clinical management capabilities, lower the financial barriers to accessing novel drugs and technologies, and support increased research efforts and clinical trial presence in the region.

Conclusion: Although advanced cHL management remains a challenge in Asia because of diverse needs within the region, regional partnerships and initiatives can bridge existing gaps and supplement local efforts to improve outcomes among patients with advanced cHL.