Is It Time for a More Holistic Approach to the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma?

Abstract

In the UK, approximately 5820 new cases of multiple myeloma (MM) are diagnosed each year. This number has increased by a third since the early 1990s. Considerable progress has been achieved in our ability to treat MM as a result of the development of new chemotherapeutic agents. MM is a disease more commonly seen in elderly individuals who frequently have pre-existing co-morbidities and are subject to social pressures that impact adversely on their quality of life (QOL). As their lives are extended by more effective treatment of MM, there is a greater need to address such issues. This review will focus on the holistic needs of a patient with MM, and how all members of the multidisciplinary team have a role. The aim is to advocate for centres to support MM patients to live well with their condition.