Keeping Track of CML

Chronic myeloid leukemia patients have free online tool to manage disease

(RxWiki News) Staying on top of a chronic disease is key to staying well. Managing these diseases can be tricky. Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a great example.

A free tool is available from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to help CML patients track – and take control of their disease. The simple-to-use online program - called “My CML Tracker” - keeps patients organized and on top of all aspects of their care.

The tool even has an audio app for recording and playing back question and answer sessions with care providers. Email and text message medication reminders also come with My CML Tracker.

"If you or someone you know has CML, learn more about My CML Tracker."

CML can be complicated to manage, especially in the beginning. Patients take daily medication and have to visit their doctors periodically for tests to measure treatment results.

My CML Tracker works on PCs, smart phones and tablets to keep track of it all:

  • Healthcare providers' names and contact information
  • Medical appointments
  • Tests (blood and marrow) schedules and test results
  • Downloadable audio recorder to record conversations with providers for easy playback.
  • Medication regimens
  • CML drug therapy side effects
  • Daily email or text medication reminders

Clare Karten, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Senior Director of Mission Education, told dailyRx News, “Before 2001, a diagnosis of CML was too often fatal. Today it’s great that so many people with CML are able to live full and busy lives, thanks to advancements in treatment.

“Tools like the ‘Tracker’ help the CML community to organize their treatment and follow up care. Our goal is to help them focus on their families, school, work--all the other aspects of their lives, while keeping up with their care so they can stay in remission,” Karten explained.

The free CML Tracker Recorder app is available on iTunes App Store or Google Play. This app lets patients record and quickly access healthcare provider conversations.

“People who use My CML Tracker say, ‘It’s a great way to keep up with details of blood tests, medications, side effects and be ready for discussions with my doctor,’ ” Karten said.

About 6,000 Americans will be diagnosed with CML this year, and more than 26,000 people in the US are living with the blood cancer.

To learn more about My CML Tracker, click the citation link below.

Review Date: 
February 18, 2013