The personal impact of living with a myeloproliferative neoplasm

The aim of this study is to gain insight into the physical, psychological and social impact of having a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN), a rare type of cancer with an often chronic course.

An online survey was conducted among 455 Dutch MPN patients (62.7% female, age M 63) to explore the impact of the disease by measuring the MPN symptom burden (MPN-SAF TSS) and quality of life (QoL) (EORTC QLQ-C30) and its subscales within a hierarchical QoL model. We examined differences in MPN symptom burden and QoL in relation to sociodemographic and disease-related factors. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to explain variances in QoL.

Most patients (97%) experienced MPN-related health complaints, with a significantly higher MPN symptom burden in women (M 31.50) compared to men (M 24.10). Regarding to fatigue and cognitive functioning MPN patients suffered more compared to a reference group of other cancers. MPN subtype or type of treatment did not show significant differences in MPN symptom burden or QoL. However, experiencing side effects, complications or comorbidities significantly negatively affected MPN symptom burden and QoL. 48.8% of patients reported that MPN affected their ability to work. The explained variance in overall QoL was 58%, most importantly by disease progression, comorbidities, MPN symptom burden and role, emotional and social functioning.

This study revealed that having an MPN has a negative impact on several domains of QoL. Symptom assessment and support should be included in the healthcare management of MPN patients.