Miami Cancer Institute Pioneers Integrated HIV/Cancer Care for Blood Cancer patients
MIAMI, FL – November 30, 2023 – In a novel approach to cancer treatment, Miami Cancer Institute is expanding specialized care for patients battling both HIV and blood cancers, leveraging a collaborative partnership with Florida International University (FIU) to address unique challenges in this vulnerable population. The initiative aims to improve outcomes through a multidisciplinary model that integrates clinical interventions with crucial social, mental health, and case management support.
Florida currently holds the third-highest number of HIV-infected residents in the U.S., with nearly 130,000 individuals living with the virus – a significant concentration residing in South Florida, according to the Florida Department of Health. Recognizing the complex needs of these patients, especially those developing blood cancers, the Institute is focusing on individualized, compassionate care.
“Many of these patients need not only clinical interventions, they also need social work, case management, mental health support.It’s a different situation for each patient,” explains Dr. Ruiz of Miami Cancer Institute. “This is one of those instances in which a truly multidisciplinary approach is vrey much needed.”
A key component of this integrated strategy involves utilizing FIU’s MASH (Miami Adult Studies on HIV) database, encompassing data from nearly 1,500 patients over the last decade.Dr. Ruiz anticipates the database will provide critical insights into barriers to care and strategies to improve access for this population.
The Institute is also actively participating in clinical trials investigating innovative treatments like immunotherapy, which harnesses the body’s T cells to target and destroy cancer cells.
“There is a huge potential here, especially now in the research arena, with the consortium and the relationship we have developed with FIU,” Dr. Ruiz stated.
This specialized clinic represents a commitment to overcoming ancient barriers to optimal care for people living with HIV. As the program expands, Miami Cancer Institute aims to deliver improved outcomes through personalized and comprehensive support.
To learn more about Miami Cancer Institute’s HIV/Cancer Clinic,visit https://baptisthealth.net/services/cancer-care/miami-cancer-institute/our-approach/treatments-and-services/hiv-cancer-clinic. December 1st marks World AIDS Day.
