A Myeloma UK funded study, published recently in the European Journal of Haematology, has found that a large number of symptoms occur frequently in myeloma patients, highlighting the importance of routine assessments throughout the disease trajectory in order to achieve optimal quality of life for patients. Led by Christina Ramsenthaler and Prof Irene Higginson, Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King’s College London, the researchers conducted a systematic review of the prevalence of symptoms and side effects as well as other health-related quality of life issues and concerns reported in myeloma patients. 34 out of 36 studies provided data for meta-analysis which revealed fatigue, pain, constipation and peripheral neuropathy to be the most prevalent symptoms while decreased physical and cognitive function together with financial difficulties were the most prevalent quality of life problems.