Patient preferences and treatment decisions at relapse

During the 2025 IMS meeting, Dr Lisa Leypoldt, haematologist at the University Medical Center in Hamburg addressed the critical topic of patient preferences at relapse in multiple myeloma care.

In her talk, she highlighted that while physicians and patients often agree that treatment efficacy is the top priority, there are significant discrepancies in other treatment priorities. Specifically, when asked about what matters most beyond efficacy, patients tend to place greater emphasis on convenience, quality of life, and minimizing side effects, compared to their physicians. In a large-scale survey involving approximately 200 physicians and 200 patients, minimizing side effects proved to be three times more important to patients than it was to physicians. This finding reveals a gap in perspectives that can impact treatment satisfaction and outcomes if not properly addressed.

She emphasized the importance of shared decision-making, where physicians take the time to actively ask patients about their individual needs, preferences, and concerns. This requires a discussion that goes beyond classical clinical indicators in order to better understand what truly matters to the patient, whether it’s avoiding certain side effects, preserving daily function, or maintaining independence.

According to Dr Leypoldt, this patient-centered approach will help to ensure that the chosen treatment is not only clinically effective but also aligned with the patient’s personal values and lifestyle. By fostering open communication, physicians can empower patients to participate meaningfully in their care, leading to more personalized and sustainable treatment strategies.

In essence, healthcare providers should always remember that a successful treatment isn’t just about prolonging life, but should also aim at the preservation of its quality. Engaging patients in treatment decisions is essential to achieve both.