IWMF Educational Forum 2021 Schedule

Getting to know the WM basics will benefit newly diagnosed patients and veteran WMers alike with a refresher course on WM and an explanation of diagnosis, symptoms, and some simple treatment guidelines.

“Understanding Your Blood and Bone Marrow Test Results” will describe the blood and bone marrow tests used to help diagnose WM, as well as explain and interpret the typical tests used by healthcare providers to monitor the disease status of their WM patients.

Making sense of the science of WM sets out a framework for patients to understand the basic genetic concepts behind the mutations that are important in WM, to appreciate the ways in which these mutations impact the signaling systems that control the behavior of WM cells, and to recognize how these mutations are changing the landscape of therapies for WM.

Living in the shadow of an incurable but treatable diagnosis like WM can sometimes feel daunting. Finding the balance between monitoring your health responsibly and living life freely and fully can be a tricky dance. How do you find the courage and clarity to celebrate today when you have no guarantees of a healthy tomorrows?

An overview of cancer related fatigue presented in a way that is meaningful to WM patients. A discussion about how cancer-related fatigue and its impact on quality of life, contributing factors that can add to fatigue, and the ways in which fatigue can be managed.

Many WM patients struggle with a weakened immune system and may be at a greater risk to acquire anything from colds to stomach bugs. This presentation will explore different strategies and tips to strengthen and protect the immune system.

A concise and informative review of current treatments along with the pros and cons of each.

The latest information available about potential new treatments for WM, as well as the necessity for patient participation in clinical trials to help move the pipeline along for more novel therapies.

Learn about different coping strategies and treatment options for those living with the pain and challenges of peripheral neuropathy. This session will address the differences between WM-caused PN versus treatment-caused PN

An insight into normal aging versus WM-related eye issues, such as retinal changes with WM and the risks for dry eye, cataracts, and glaucoma

An overview of the variety of dermatologic conditions that sometimes affect WM patients. Learn how to differentiate those problems that are a result of the disease itself and those which are often associated with treatments.

Many people with WM have other relatives with WM, MGUS, or related blood cancers. The question of whether WM is “inherited” is a complicated one. Dr. Mary Lou McMaster (from the National Institutes of Health) will share her many years of research on the nature of familial factors in WM. She will clarify what is meant by “familial” as opposed to “genetic predisposition.” She will also discuss the role that environmental factors can play.

Hear about updated treatment guidelines for WM created by a consortium of international WM specialists based on a review of 2018 – 2020 content.

Panelists: Drs. Ansell, Branagan, McMaster, Castillo

A panel of WM experts will answer, and sometimes debate, questions about WM from the Ed Forum audience.