Other prognostic factors: Age/health

Age is considered to be a prognostic factor in myeloma with older patients having poorer outcomes. This is largely due to its influence on treatment options, in particular whether a patient is eligible for stem cell transplantation. However, it is increasingly recognised that instead of using age alone, it is more important to consider a patient’s health, fitness, frailty score and preference. Nurses are best placed to assess both the physical and emotional fitness of patients throughout their myeloma journey so have a key role to play here.