Quality Care for Hematological Malignancies: A Step Forward

Every year, 300,000 Europeans receive a blood cancer diagnosis such as leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. And the numbers are on the rise.

Samantha Nier, Director of the Acute Leukaemia Advocates Network, highlights findings from a global study of over 2,000 leukaemia patients and 700 carers.

‘Our research shows that 90% of patients and 85% of carers did not recognise early symptoms as signs of leukaemia. Diagnosis was often delayed, with only a third diagnosed after their first consultation and 21% seeing a healthcare professional four or more times. More than half of surveyed patients struggled to understand their diagnosis, and few received information about psychological support (9%), treatment risks (11%), or financial advice (2%). Only 15% were connected to patient support groups.’

This is not acceptable. While Europe has made real strides in identifying and treating hematological malignancies, we must push ‘earlier diagnosis as well as better access to tailored information, emotional support, and patient advocacy services.’

That’s why the European Cancer Organisation, together with leading experts and under the guidance of Professor John Gribben and Professor Leticia Quintanilla-Fend, have taken the important initial step in clearly identifying what every patient deserves.

Introducing: Essential Requirements for Quality Cancer Care: Hematological Malignancies. The latest paper in this flagship series is focused on blood cancers and published in HemaSphere.

The Essential Requirements are ambitious but realistic targets for politicians, managers, oncology teams, patients, and patient advocacy groups. They include:

• fast, easy access to accurate diagnostic tests;
• established pathways for referral to specialist centres;
• centralised services;
• monitoring patient well‐being;
• treatment strategies agreed by a multidisciplinary team; and
• involving patients and their families at all stages of decision‐making process.

John Gribben, Past President, European Hematology Association (EHA):

‘This is an important new charter to improve cancer care for people living with hematological malignancies across Europe. It defines what good quality care should look like.  This shared vision is grounded in consensus from more than 23 stakeholder groups, including patients, doctors, and policymakers. It is a big step forward to make sure every patient gets the care they need, wherever they live.’