Understanding Immunity and CLL
Recorded Thursday, October 8, 2026
Duration 90 minutes
Description
The immune system plays an important role in protecting us from infections, cancer, and other health problems—but CLL can affect how the immune system works. In this educational webinar, Dr. William Wierda will explain how CLL affects immune function, including immune deficiencies, autoimmune complications, the risk of second cancers, and how CLL treatments can affect the immune system.
He will also discuss infection prevention, including vaccines, IVIG, and preventive medications, as well as cancer screening and what is known about restoring immune function.
Speakers
Moderator:
Ed Ratner, MD
CLL Patient Advocate
Speaker:
William G. Wierda, MD, PhD
Clinical Medical Director, Department of Leukemia
Professor, Department of Leukemia
Executive Medical Director, Inpatient Medical Services
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
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This program was made possible by generous donors and grant support from AstraZeneca, BeOne, and Lilly.
CLL Society Resources
- Download Transcript
- Download Slides
- CLL / SLL Patient Education Toolkit
- Understanding Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (CLL / SLL)
- Preventing Infections
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
- Active Surveillance
- Vaccinations for Patients with CLL / SLL
- Screening for Secondary Cancers After Being Diagnosed with CLL or SLL
Virtual Exhibitor Resources