Combating Multiple Myeloma: A Challenge for Healthcare Providers and Patients

Multiple myeloma is a malignant blood disease that presents with various levels and manifestations, making it challenging to diagnose and prone to complications. This disease is most common in individuals over the age of 65 and is characterized by the accumulation of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow and other organs. This can lead to bone loss, pathological fractures, and dysfunction in organs such as the kidneys, causing symptoms like anemia, fatigue, and recurring infections.

Despite being a common disease, many people are unaware of multiple myeloma, leading to delayed diagnosis. Dr. Vu Duc Binh, Deputy Director of the Central Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, emphasizes this issue. The Institute currently treats around 1,000 cases of multiple myeloma annually, with 150 new cases being diagnosed each year and 700-800 individuals receiving outpatient care.

Diagnosing multiple myeloma can be challenging due to its diverse presentations. The Institute has invested in new diagnostic equipment to aid in early detection. Treatment for multiple myeloma is ongoing and often requires long-term management. Patients need regular injections and medication to control symptoms and maintain their quality of life. While there is no complete cure for multiple myeloma, ongoing advancements in treatment options aim to improve patient outcomes. Oral medications have shown promise in providing convenience for patients but access to these drugs can be limited due to insurance coverage.

In light of the challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic healthcare providers are exploring new ways to deliver care to multiple myeloma patients such as home-based treatment regimens. By expanding insurance coverage for oral medications and implementing patient-centered approaches the goal is to improve treatment adherence reduce treatment abandonment enhance overall management of multiple myeloma.

Experts emphasize that early diagnosis and proper management are crucial for improving outcomes for patients with multiple myeloma. They encourage healthcare providers to remain vigilant when treating patients with this disease by considering its diverse presentations and ensuring access to appropriate diagnostic equipment and treatments.

The Central Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion plays a vital role in treating multiple myeloma cases by providing specialized care for patients with this disease. The Institute has invested heavily in research on this disease aimed at improving patient outcomes through better diagnosis tools