A patient narrative that underscored the potential of CAR-T cell therapy for treating advanced blood cancers was highlighted at the recent 2025 SinoUnited Health International Medical Forum in Shanghai.

Dale De Penning from New Zealand shared his experience at the CAR-T and Advances in Hematology sub-forum.

In 2023, he was diagnosed with Stage IV diffuse large B-cell lymphoma after experiencing severe abdominal pain and bleeding. His condition was critical, with a large tumor compressing multiple organs.

After several standard chemotherapy regimens yielded unsatisfactory results, he began exploring international treatment options.

Following extensive research and medical consultations, he traveled to Shanghai to undergo CAR-T cell therapy. This personalized treatment involves genetically modifying a patient's own T-cells to target cancer cells.

His health indicators have since improved significantly, allowing him to return to an active lifestyle.

Dale De Penning’s experience reflects a growing trend of international patients seeking specialized cell therapy treatments in China.

It also highlights the importance of global clinical collaboration and continuous research to deepen understanding of long-term treatment effectiveness and broaden access to emerging treatments.

Shen Hua, medical director of Shanghai SinoUnited Hospital, said that the collective expertise and clinical results presented at the forum affirm the significant and growing contribution of Chinese medical practice to global CAR-T therapy progress, providing meaningful options for patients around the world.