The Impact of Income and Location in Myeloma Patients’ Outcomes

Health disparities or inequities are differences in the burden of disease, injury, violence, or opportunities to achieve optimal health experienced by people who face social disadvantage. These disparities affect groups who experience greater obstacles to receiving health care.

In this article, we break down a recent study presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), which analyzed data from 2000 to 2021, paying specific attention to how income and place of residence may impact the life expectancy of multiple myeloma patients.

Higher Income Linked to Lower Myeloma Death Rates

The study analysis shows that people with higher household incomes have lower death rates from myeloma. For example, people earning under $40,000 had a myeloma death rate of 7.3 per 100,000. In comparison, those making $120,000 or more had a rate of 5.31 per 100,000.

This demonstrates that people with higher incomes often have better access to newer treatments, supportive care, and insurance coverage. These factors can lead to earlier diagnoses, more treatment options, and better overall outcomes. 

Where You Live May Also Impact Outcomes

This analysis also found a small but important difference in myeloma death rates based on where people live. People in more rural areas had a slightly higher mortality rate of 6.14 per 100,000 compared to 5.94 per 100,000 in urban areas.

Previous studies have also shown that people with myeloma who live in rural areas may have fewer nearby treatment centers, limited access to specialists, or face longer travel times for appointments. These challenges can delay care or limit treatment options.

It is important to understand that access should not be limited by what a person can afford, as healthcare is a universal right. Studies that address these limitations can open the conversation to find strategies that reduce the gap between economic and social implications that may limit access to healthcare. 

Mortality Rates Have Declined Overall, But Gaps Remain

Over the last 20 years, survival among individuals with multiple myeloma has increased thanks to medical advances and improved treatment strategies. However, the gap between groups based on income and location has not closed. If access to optimal health depends on economic resources, it’s a collective effort to advocate for optimal healthcare for all populations. 

Why Understanding These Disparities Matters

This research highlights that having access to effective therapies isn’t just about what treatments exist; it’s about who has access to them. Patients with fewer resources may miss out on newer options, including therapies like monoclonal antibodies, targeted therapies, or stem cell transplants.

Addressing these differences means making sure all patients, regardless of income or location, can access the care they need. This includes better insurance coverage, expanding specialist services into rural areas, and improving transportation or telehealth options.

Moving Toward More Equitable Care

The study calls for action to close these gaps. Healthcare systems, policymakers, and researchers must work together to make sure advances in myeloma care are available to everyone. This may include outreach programs, financial assistance for treatment, or improved local access to specialists.

Myeloma treatment has improved, but not everyone benefits equally. People with lower incomes or living in rural areas still face higher death rates. Understanding these disparities helps identify where changes are needed to make care more accessible for all patients.

Patients can advocate for their care by asking about all available treatment options and using support services when facing access challenges. Join the HealthTree community and access free resources that improve self-advocacy. 

Click the button below to read more about how HealthTree impacts the blood cancer community and how you can contribute to patient-centered care. 

READ MORE ARTICLES

See financial and helpful resources here.

Sources: 

• Income and location divide in myeloma outcomes: A call for equitable care.