Western Australia’s growing role in blood cancer research has been highlighted in The West Australian, following promising results from the WA-led LEVERAGE clinical trial.
Published on Saturday, 26 September, WA’s game-changer in the blood cancer fight highlights the work of Professor Chan Cheah and the team at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in developing new approaches to treating blood cancers.
The LEVERAGE clinical trial is investigating a chemotherapy-free treatment approach for people newly diagnosed with advanced follicular lymphoma, using a combination of three medicines: obinutuzumab, venetoclax and lenalidomide.
The latest results from 50 patients are encouraging. 92% of patients responded to treatment, with 86% achieving a complete response. At two years, 92% of patients remained free from disease progression, with overall survival at 100% after a median follow-up of just over 18 months.
Importantly, LEVERAGE is a WA-led, investigator-initiated clinical trial. The trial is an example of research being developed and led here in WA, giving local patients access to innovative treatment approaches while contributing to the global understanding of blood cancer.
The research has also been recognised by the WA Government, with Medical Research Minister Stephen Dawson highlighting the LEVERAGE trial and the role of WA researchers in advancing new approaches to blood cancer treatment.
For Blood Cancer Research WA, supporting investigator-initiated clinical research is central to our work. By supporting researchers, clinical research fellows and specialist staff, we help create opportunities for Western Australians to take part in clinical trials and access new treatment approaches closer to home.
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Featured in The West Australian
WA’s game changer in blood cancer fight — 26 September 2026.
WA Government media statement
WA innovation reshaping the treatment of blood cancers — 26 September 2026.
