Quality of life of patients with hematological malignancies and factors affecting health state utility values.

Abstract

It is well studied that physical function and social background affect the quality of life (QoL) of cancer patients. However, differences in QoL by age and factors affecting health state utility values (HSUV) of patients with hematological malignancies have not yet been sufficiently investigated. Our aim is to investigate the factors that affect QoL and HSUV in such patients. A total of 32 patients with hematological malignancies on outpatient chemotherapy were included. QoL and HSUV were evaluated using the EuroQol-5 Dimension 5-level (EQ-5D-5L). Physical function was assessed using grip strength, knee extension strength, 6-min walking distance, and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Fatigue was assessed using Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI), and nutritional status was assessed using Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF). In the EQ-5D-5L, a high percentage of the patients were aware of mobility problems and pain/discomfort, and mobility problems were more common in the older-aged group (≥ 65years old, n = 16) than in the middle-aged group (< 65years old, n = 16). In addition, the older-aged group showed lower HSUV and physical function. SPPB (β = 0.38, p < 0.01), BFI (β = - 0.58, p < 0.01), and MNA-SF (β = 0.29, p = 0.02) were independent factors affecting HSUV (adjusted R2 = 0.65, p < 0.01). BFI was correlated with HSUV in both older and middle-aged groups. Comprehensive supports, to improve lower extremity function, fatigue, and nutritional status, are required to augment QoL and HSUV in patients with hematological malignancies.