Individual quality of life in patients with multiple myeloma

Abstract

ObjectiveThe situation of patients with multiple myeloma, whose treatment often implies high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation that can be associated with severe symptoms and psychological distress, has gained attention in recent psychooncological research. This study followed an idiographic approach in order to identify the areas of life most relevant for the interviewed myeloma patients’ quality of life (QoL) as well as their current satisfaction with these.Methods64 patients took part in semi-structured interviews according to the SEIQoL-DW Manual (Schedule for the Evaluation of Individual Quality of Life – Direct Weighting). Visual analogue scales (VAS) were used to gain additional information about a general assessment of the present QoL. Qualitative data evaluation preceded quantitative processing. Groups were compared according to the time elapsed since diagnosis regarding specified areas of life, satisfaction with these and their relative weighting. SEIQoL-DW-indices were correlated to the VAS to reflect on an interindividually comparable parameter.ResultsPersonal social relationships were mentioned significantly more often as important for QoL than health-related aspects, and in direct comparison were weighted significantly stronger. Regarding the change of areas relevant for QoL over the time elapsed since diagnosis, there was a significant difference between groups concerning the area of spirituality. Satisfaction differed significantly between groups for the field of leisure.ConclusionThe results for the interviewed patients with multiple myeloma point out the need to take into account the importance of social and individual aspects when reflecting on QoL. Similar findings have been reported for different samples. The relevance of an individualized approach is illustrated by the fact that individually named areas of life were rated comparatively strongly in their importance for the patients’ QoL. An overall assessment for the current QoL by means of VAS is regarded as an adequate supplement to the SEIQoL-Profile and an alternative to the SEIQoL-DW-Index.

An Approach to Assess Quality of Life Through Biometric Monitoring in Cancer Patients

“…In particular, the treatment of haemato-oncological diseases, such as lymphoma, often implies high-dose chemotherapy, which can be associated with severe symptoms and psychological distress creating difficulties in fulfilling family and social roles (e.g. be able to work or participating in daily social activities) and having a major impact in patient QoL [5]. Despite there is no consensus in the literature, QoL term is seen as a multidimensional (physical, psychological, social, and spiritual), subjective, and dynamic concept [1].…”

Unmet needs and quality of life in multiple myeloma patients

“…In general, research indicates a consensual positive association between perceived support by family, friends and community and patients’ QoL (Wang et al, 2015). The personal social relationships are also reported as a relevant aspect in MM patients’ QoL (Dürner et al, 2013). High levels of perceived social support have been associated with a decrease in psychological morbidity (Rini et al, 2016), such as anxiety and depression and an increase in QoL (Molassiotis et al, 2011).…”

“…Al-Natour et al, 2017). Higher levels of spirituality not only are associated with better QoL (Barata et al, 2016; Bovero et al, 2015; Dürner et al, 2013; Slovacek et al, 2007), but also with a decrease in physical symptoms and lower anxiety and depression levels (Barata et al, 2016; Slovacek et al, 2007). Therefore, spirituality can be a predictor of QoL (Sirilla and Overcash, 2013).…”

Validation of the Quality of Life Multiple Myeloma Module Questionnaire (QLQ‐MY20) in Portuguese myeloma patients

“…Family support and social relationships contribute to higher levels of QoL, assuming an important buffer over the impact of stress (Molassiotis et al, ). A study with patients with MM showed that social relationships were considered more important for QoL than aspects related to their health (Dürner, Reinecker, & Csef, ). In the QoL's model of Wilson and Cleary () adapted to patients with MM, social support is crucial, impacting directly on QoL.…”