Making treatment decisions

Choosing treatment for myeloma is not a simple decision as no one single treatment or treatment combination has been identified as the best. In addition, myeloma is a very individual cancer and each patient responds differently to different treatments.

Your haematologist will spend time discussing with you and your family what they think are the best options for you based on:

• The nature and stage of your myeloma
• Your age
• Your overall health
• Your personal circumstances, priorities and preferences

You may wish to just follow the advice of your doctor or you may prefer to take a more active role in the decision-making process.

Ask as many questions as you need to at any stage. You should feel that you have enough information about your myeloma and the treatment options available before making your decision.

Making an informed decision is important and unless there is an urgent need to start treatment e.g. if you have significant complications, you should take as much time as you need to make one.

You can also seek more than one opinion if you feel it is necessary.

 Initial treatment options