The increasing incidence of multiple myeloma is concerning, with around 188,000 new cases and 121,000 deaths reported globally in 2022, projected to rise by over 70% by 2045.

Dr. Abuhelwa emphasized that patient self-assessment of physical ability is a more reliable predictor of treatment response than traditional clinical evaluations.

The study suggests a shift towards patient-centered care in oncology, focusing on how patients perceive their health to tailor treatments more effectively.

A new international study led by Dr. Ahmad Abuhelwa from the University of Sharjah offers promising insights for multiple myeloma treatment.

Co-author Prof. Humaid Al-Shamsi highlights the importance of patient-centered care in oncology, advocating for personalized therapies based on patient feelings at the start of treatment.

With multiple myeloma cases rising globally, the findings could significantly impact treatment decisions for this demographic.

The research involved 1,804 patients across three major clinical trials conducted in collaboration with institutions in the UAE, Australia, and the United States.

Findings published in the European Journal of Haematology revealed that patients with low physical function at treatment onset benefitted significantly from daratumumab therapy, with a 47% reduction in mortality risk and a 66% decrease in disease progression.

The authors call for policymakers to support the use of patient-reported outcomes in clinical trials and routine care, and for drug developers to consider these indicators in future studies.

In contrast, patients with higher baseline physical functioning experienced only a 14% reduction in mortality risk and a 47% reduction in disease progression.

The study suggests that understanding patient perceptions of their health can lead to more tailored treatment approaches for multiple myeloma.

An international study has discovered that self-reported physical function assessments can predict treatment responses in multiple myeloma patients.