Eve Roman

Chronic blood cancers are incurable, and characterised by unpredictable, remitting-relapsing pathways. Management often involves periods of observation prior to treatment (if required), and post-treatment, in an approach known as ‘Watch and Wait’. This study aimed to explore patient experiences of ‘Watch and Wait’. In-depth interviews with 35 patients (10 accompanied by relatives) with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, follicular lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma or myeloma.

Theme 3: perceptions of proactive/non-proactive approaches to TDM During interview, a number of patients articulated views relating to proactive involvement in TDM, within the context of their stated preference for acceptance of haematologists’ recommendations, while others described factors likely to impede or diminish active engagement in TDM. Factors associated with proactive and non-proactive approaches to decisions are summarised in figure 2.