Abstract
Introduction
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a rare diagnosis within primary care however, its precursor MGUS (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance) is relatively common within older populations. Despite this, previous studies suggest that knowledge and awareness of MGUS is low among general practitioners (GP).
Methods
An online survey was undertaken to investigate knowledge and awareness of MGUS and the support services needed by GPs/trainees to support these patients. The survey was promoted at a large European primary care conference and via social media. Descriptive statistics were used to compare participant responses to variables of interest.
Results
A total of 58 GPs (n=35 registered GPs and n=23 GP trainees) from 24 countries responded to the survey. Self-reported familiarity with the term MGUS was low (mean score (out of 5): 2.21 standard deviation: 1.09) and the majority (88.2%) stated they would feel uncomfortable discussing MGUS with their patients. The increased association with cancer was identified by 62.1% of GPs/trainees with MM, lymphoma and myelodysplastic syndrome the most commonly reported cancers. Just under 60% of participants reported being aware of the signs/symptoms associated with progression to cancer. The majority of GPs/trainees were supportive of follow-up via telephone clinic (phlebotomy performed in GP practice with patient management maintained by haematology) but only 25% stated they would be happy to solely manage low/low-intermediate risk MGUS patients within their practice.
Conclusions
The findings of this study highlight a lack of knowledge and awareness of MGUS among GPs/trainees. The majority of GPs/trainees are happy to support haematology in managing these patients but require assistance and support in providing these services.
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a rare diagnosis within primary care however, its precursor MGUS (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance) is relatively common within older populations. Despite this, previous studies suggest that knowledge and awareness of MGUS is low among general practitioners (GP).
Methods
An online survey was undertaken to investigate knowledge and awareness of MGUS and the support services needed by GPs/trainees to support these patients. The survey was promoted at a large European primary care conference and via social media. Descriptive statistics were used to compare participant responses to variables of interest.
Results
A total of 58 GPs (n=35 registered GPs and n=23 GP trainees) from 24 countries responded to the survey. Self-reported familiarity with the term MGUS was low (mean score (out of 5): 2.21 standard deviation: 1.09) and the majority (88.2%) stated they would feel uncomfortable discussing MGUS with their patients. The increased association with cancer was identified by 62.1% of GPs/trainees with MM, lymphoma and myelodysplastic syndrome the most commonly reported cancers. Just under 60% of participants reported being aware of the signs/symptoms associated with progression to cancer. The majority of GPs/trainees were supportive of follow-up via telephone clinic (phlebotomy performed in GP practice with patient management maintained by haematology) but only 25% stated they would be happy to solely manage low/low-intermediate risk MGUS patients within their practice.
Conclusions
The findings of this study highlight a lack of knowledge and awareness of MGUS among GPs/trainees. The majority of GPs/trainees are happy to support haematology in managing these patients but require assistance and support in providing these services.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Publication status | Unpublished - 13 Oct 2017 |
| Event | Haematology Association Ireland Annual Meeting 2017 - Europa Hotel, Belfast, United Kingdom Duration: 13 Oct 2017 → 15 Oct 2017 http://www.haematologyireland.ie/meetingscourses/ |
Conference
| Conference | Haematology Association Ireland Annual Meeting 2017 |
|---|---|
| Country/Territory | United Kingdom |
| City | Belfast |
| Period | 13/10/17 → 15/10/17 |
| Internet address |
