Therapeutic positioning of asciminib in chronic myeloid leukemia patients previously treated with multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitors in Qatar

Chronic phase-chronic myeloid leukemia (CP-CML) in Qatar presents unique epidemiological and clinical challenges compared with those in the Western population, including nearly half of the affected patients being under 40 years of age. Additionally, the high prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities in this region significantly influences treatment decisions. This position statement presents an evaluation of the therapeutic role of asciminib in patients previously treated with two or more tyrosine kinase inhibitors and its relevance within Qatar’s healthcare system. Studies have demonstrated asciminib’s superior efficacy in achieving higher rates of major molecular response than bosutinib. Furthermore, compared with ponatinib, asciminib offers a favorable cardiovascular safety profile, making it a preferred option for patients at risk of cardiovascular complications. Cost-effectiveness analyses further support its adoption as a viable treatment alternative in Qatar. Given these considerations, asciminib emerges as a promising therapeutic option for patients with CP-CML requiring third-line treatment, striking a balance between efficacy, safety, and economic feasibility within the local healthcare framework.