The European Myeloma Network was established as a result of collaboration and cooperation between myeloma physicians and researchers. The initial impetus that brought this group together came from the Sixth Framework Programme (2002), as the group initially formed to apply for funding from this source. Although the application was unsuccessful, it provided encouragement to continue the activities, and the network was formally established in October 2003. The basic idea was to create interaction between the people working in different areas of myeloma (for example, basic science, clinical trials and patient education) and build an interface to establish standardisation of laboratory techniques such as fluorescent in-situ hybridisation (FISH) techniques for these groups. The aim of the network is to bring these groups together in some way, to deliver better quality research. Resources need to be used wisely, with priorities being set. Establishing a common databank of trials from the European Community where trial data is pooled is one such priority. This project can then extend into the future to analyse clinical, biological and genetic prognostic factors. Looking ahead to other potential benefits of the network, there may be opportunities to examine orphan treatments, and it has the potential to act as the intermediate organisation, helping pharmaceutical companies and tumour working groups in a variety of countries to establish the most appropriate clinical trials.

Keywords:
Myeloma, Research
© 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel
2005
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.