Fatigue and issues with cognition represented the most common and disabling symptoms associated with myeloproliferative neoplasms, according to findings published in Psycho Oncology . The study team conducted an online survey to learn more about the physical, psychological, and social impacts associated with having a myeloproliferative neoplasm. Measurements included the myeloproliferative neoplasm symptom burden and QOL scales and their subscales. The investigators also assessed differences in symptom burden and QOL in relation to sociodemographic and disease related factors.

Multiple Factors Contribute to QOL Differences

The analysis included 455 respondents with a myeloproliferative neoplasm (mean age, 63), most of whom where women. Nearly all patients (97%) experienced health complaints, with a significantly higher symptom burden in women versus men. Fatigue and cognitive functioning were found to be worse in patients with a myeloproliferative neoplasm compared with a reference group of patients with other cancers. While myeloproliferative neoplasm subtype and treatment received were not related to significant differences in symptom burden or QOL, effects, complications, and comorbidities had significantly negative impacts. Nearly half of all patients (48.8%) stated that myeloproliferative neoplasms impacted their ability to work. The researchers also noted a 58% variance in QOL. “Disease progression, comorbidities, role and social functioning, and symptom burden significantly contributed to the explanation of QOL,” they wrote.

Incorporating Symptoms into QOL Evaluation

The study team acknowledged several limitations of the research, including the self reported nature of the survey, but noted that the overall results indicate a need for clinicians to add symptom assessments to routine blood tests when monitoring disease burden. “The personal impact of [a myeloproliferative neoplasm] on daily life can be profound,” they wrote. “Assessment of symptoms, social support, and further research are needed to explore ways to improve QOL in [patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms].”