Examining health related quality of life outcomes in multiple myeloma: Past and future perspectives

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a complex hematological malignancy. Advances in therapy over the last decade have resulted in significant improvement in overall survival for patients with a diagnosis of MM, leading to a substantial number of older people living with the disease. However, patients continue to suffer from a multitude of debilitating symptoms that can significantly affect their quality of life, a problem that especially can impact patients with MM considered in the geriatric age group. In the first part of our review, we reflect on traditional measurement tools that are used to assess health related quality of life in patients living with MM, as they undergo different types of treatment regimens. In the second part, we discuss the potential role of the Internet of Medical Things in tracking and actively enhancing health related quality of life in patients with a diagnosis of MM. We conceptualize models of passive and active digital health technology platforms that are posed to transform the patient-physician relationship in the new era of advanced care.