Patient-Reported Outcomes and Assessment of Quality of Life: A Focus on Multiple Myeloma

Patients with multiple myeloma are living longer, yet the chronicity of newer treatment modalities has led to increased symptom burden and a notable effect on quality of life (QOL). The assessment of QOL and evaluation of patient-reported outcomes is an essential element to the care of this population. Patients with MM may experience unwanted side effects or disease-related symptoms that create a burden in everyday living. Subjective patient-reported information has become an important dimension to the overall care and treatment of these patients. Symptoms that negatively affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and their impact on future treatments should be assessed using patient-reported tools. Many patients’ treatment decisions are guided by their perception of their HRQoL. It is important for advanced practitioners to explore which factors are most impactful to the patient. Improved understanding of this can further enhance the management of symptoms and adjustments in treatment to avoid further reduction in HRQoL.