Journal-based CME Course: A Network for Advancing Prevention and Treatment of Infections Among Immunocompromised Individuals

Activity ID

14430

Expires

August 22, 2028

Format Type

Journal-based

CME Credit

1

Fee

$30

CME Provider: JAMA Network Open

Description of CME Course

Importance  Immunocompromised individuals are a large and growing population who are at increased risk for infectious diseases. There has and continues to be a lack of focus on clinical trials to establish the safety and efficacy of therapies for infectious diseases in immunocompromised patients. The establishment of a US-based clinical trial network to improve the study and subsequent implementation of therapies and strategies to treat and prevent infections in immunocompromised individuals would address this gap in research infrastructure and jumpstart public and private investment.

Observations  A national interdisciplinary meeting was convened on September 10, 2024, in Bethesda, Maryland, to discuss the outsized impact of infectious diseases in immunocompromised individuals and to identify the primary gaps and opportunities for clinical trials in this population. Approaches to achieve this goal include obtaining dedicated funding and support through public-private partnerships to establish alignment and feasibility for high-priority areas of research. This article outlines the relevance of this work; ongoing efforts to collaborate with the National Institutes of Health, US Congress, industry, and philanthropy to obtain funding for mutually beneficial outcomes; the network structure; and perspectives from clinicians, regulatory agencies, the pharmaceutical industry, and patients.

Conclusions and Relevance  There is a dearth of evidence to support the use of many therapies for infectious diseases in immunocompromised individuals, which has substantial impact at the individual and societal level. A multipronged approach to improve integration of, and funding for, rigorous research in this population into the core priorities of the public and private sectors could address important public health gaps by developing evidence-based guidance to protect a vulnerable community.

Disclaimers

1. This activity is accredited by the American Medical Association.
2. This activity is free to AMA members.

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