In decisions about therapeutic strategy in multiple myeloma, patient preferences and concerns also play a crucial role
The perspective on the preferences of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) is very necessary at a time of rapid development of new treatment options. Patient priorities and their perception of treatment can, alongside the assessment of the efficacy or toxicity of a modality, also influence decisions about the therapeutic strategy.
Analyzed data and findings
A qualitative study, the results of which were published last year, included a literature review, results of discussions with 24 MM patients from Belgium, Finland, Romania, and Spain using the so-called nominal group technique, and a qualitative thematic analysis involving multi-party discussions with stakeholders in the treatment.
Final findings
According to the information obtained, patients were very optimistic and expressed hope that the treatment would extend their life and reduce symptoms associated with the disease. On the other hand, they expressed concerns about side effects of the treatment that could threaten life or permanently damage organ functions.
Some of the most feared side effects include bone fractures and severe neuropathies (such as chronic tingling), as they can affect the patients' independence and mobility. Among the side effects mentioned by patients are those that can affect daily functioning: cognitive disorders, vision problems, increased susceptibility to infections, pain, a feeling of reduced energy, or emotional problems. Another area of concern for patients was uncertainty regarding the duration of the positive effect of the treatment in contrast to the duration of disease symptoms.
Conclusion
This study highlighted the need for a deeper understanding of the disease and treatment options from the patients' perspective. It is very important for them to understand the symptoms of the disease and the benefits and risks—both short-term and long-term—that the treatment offers. Transparent and open discussions that answer these questions and concerns are very important for patients. Furthermore, information about their preferences can help in the development of drugs and procedures in clinical practice.
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Source: Janssens R., Lang T., Vallejo A. et al. Patient preferences for multiple myeloma treatments: a multinational qualitative study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021 Jul 6; 8: 686165, doi: 10.3389/fmed.2021.686165.
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