Myeloma; living better and living longer - a look at the advances

ABSTRACT Introduction: The newer treatments approved for multiple myeloma patients have markedly improved the outcome and length of their lives. Areas covered: Over the last few years, based on these considerations, the evaluation of quality of life during cancer treatment has become extremely important. Symptoms due to myeloma at the onset, such as pain, fatigue, nausea, weight loss, disability, as well as the side effects of the treatment, can have a significant negative impact on their well-being and functioning. The development of multidimensional self-report quality of life instruments has allowed investigators to measure the adverse impact of the disease and its treatment. This can guide the physician in the choice of the most appropriate treatment and permits the refining of interventions to prevent or treat the adverse effects. Expert commentary: The routine use of quality of life instruments in clinical practice can improve the quality of care that patients receive, as well as their health status.