New Study Reveals Impact of Multiple Myeloma on Black-White Patient-Caregiver Dyads' Function & QoL

[Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 07/10/2023] A recently published study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society titled "A lot to manage and still have some kind of a life" sheds light on the impact of multiple myeloma on the function and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of Black-White patient-caregiver dyads in North Carolina. The study, led by Lauren C Bates-Fraser and mentored by Dr. Shakira Grant, provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by primarily older adults affected by multiple myeloma.

Multiple myeloma is an incurable blood cancer known for having the lowest HRQoL among all cancers. The study recruited 21 dyads from the UNC-Chapel Hill Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center to capture their perspectives on factors influencing HRQoL in multiple myeloma survivors.

The key findings encompass six themes: physical burden, treatment challenges, losses of independence, caregiver burden, patient and caregiver perseverance, and adjustment to a new normal. Participants emphasized the importance of perseverance and adaptability in living with multiple myeloma.

Dr. Shakira Grant, the study's senior author, emphasized the significance of their research, stating, "This study provides valuable insight into the function and HRQoL of primarily older adults affected by multiple myeloma, more than six months following a diagnosis. The findings add important context to the existing literature, which has largely quantitatively assessed these areas in either patients or caregivers."

This study highlights the ongoing impact of multiple myeloma on the function and HRQoL of patients and caregivers. The findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions and support to enhance overall health, highlighting the need for future research and clinical efforts to focus on dyadic interventions. By addressing the unique needs of patient-caregiver dyads, we can improve the lives of those affected by multiple myeloma.

For more information, please contact:

Shakira J. Grant MBBS, MSCR

The GrantLab

Email: grantlabmm@gmail.com

Website: https://www.shakirajgrant.com

Full citation of the published manuscript:

- Title: "A lot to manage and still have some kind of a life: How multiple myeloma impacts the function and quality-of-life of Black-White patient-caregiver dyads"

- Authors: Bates-Fraser LC, Mills J, Mihas P, Wildes TM, Kent EE, Erisnor G, Adams L, Grant SJ. "

.-Journal: J Am Geriatr Soc.

- Publication Date: 2023 Jun 16.

- PMID: 37326501

- DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18482