MDS and Cancer: Clearing the Confusion with Dr. Marando image

MDS and Cancer: Clearing the Confusion with Dr. Marando

Feb 09, 2026 11:00AM - Feb 10, 2026 11:01AM EST
Overview

In this episode, Dr. Ludovica Marando discusses the complexities of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) and clonal hematopoiesis (CH). She explains the challenges in treating MDS, the significance of understanding CH, and the confusion surrounding MDS as a form of cancer. The discussion also covers the importance of risk stratification in MDS treatment and the current research aimed at preventing the progression of these conditions.

Agenda
11:00 AM
Introduction
Mary Arnett

Mary introduces the agenda of the event and our featured speaker Dr. Ludovica Marando

11:05 AM
Discussion
Ludovica Marando, MD

Dr. Ludovica Marando discusses the complexities of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) and clonal hematopoiesis (CH) and answers your questions

Speakers & Moderators
Healthtree contact Mary Arnett

Mary Arnett

Mary joined HealthTree in 2022 as a part of HealthTree's team to help expand into all blood cancers. She now works as HealthTree's Volunteer & Community Outreach Manager, helping to engage and involve community members in HealthTree's mission. When she isn't working, she loves being the fun aunt to her 13 nieces and nephews, attending concerts, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and traveling to explore new cities.

Healthtree contact Ludovica Marando, MD

Ludovica Marando, MD

Dr. Ludovica Marando is a blood cancer specialist and researcher at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. She cares for patients with conditions that can lead to leukemia and studies why some people are at higher risk of developing these diseases. Her research focuses on understanding early warning signs in the blood—changes known as “clonal hematopoiesis”—that can sometimes turn into leukemia. By studying these changes in detail, Dr. Marando hopes to develop more effective methods for identifying individuals at risk and preventing blood cancers before they develop.