New Leukemia Treatment Boosts Survival to 82.4%

Mérida, Yucatán — At the 2025 Amgen Medical Excellence Summit (CEMA), it was announced that a bispecific T-cell engager antibody (BiTE®) will now be available as a first-line treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in both children and adults. This approval, granted by Mexico’s Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (COFEPRIS), marks a significant advancement in the fight against this disease.

A Lifeline for Patients

ALL is the most common type of leukemia in individuals under 19 and also affects those over 50. According to Max Saráchaga, Medical Director of Amgen Mexico, this innovative therapy offers patients the opportunity to receive treatment at an earlier stage, potentially reducing relapses and improving prognosis.

A clinical study demonstrated a five-year survival rate of 82.4% among patients who received the antibody in combination with chemotherapy, compared to 62.5% for those treated with chemotherapy alone.

How the Treatment Works

The BiTE® antibody acts as a bridge, connecting T-cells (which combat threats) with cancerous cells, enabling a more effective immune response. During the summit, which brought together over 200 specialists, discussions also focused on the diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), the second most common hematologic cancer in Mexico.

Dr. Susana Suárez, General Director of Amgen Mexico, emphasized that the company aims to drive continuous medical education and scientific innovation through such forums to enhance patients’ quality of life.

A Step Forward in Cancer Care

This milestone underscores the growing potential of immunotherapy in treating aggressive cancers, offering new hope for patients and their families. The approval aligns with global efforts to expand access to cutting-edge therapies for life-threatening conditions.