OBJECTIVES

: MPM is a rare and usually fatal malignancy. Severe, life-limiting symptoms include dyspnoea, pleural effusion, chest wall pain, and fatigue. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of MPM on the HRQoL of patients and their caregivers and to identify important treatment attributes.

METHODS

: A mixed-methods design was employed, featuring a thematic analysis and the development of individual conceptual models for patients and caregivers. Individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted with people living with MPM and caregivers (N=45) in the UK and Australia. Participants also completed HRQoL questionnaires, including a newly developed EQ-5D-5L respiratory bolt-on. The study design and interim findings were reviewed by a panel of HEOR and mesothelioma experts.

RESULTS

: People living with MPM described themes including the experience of and debilitating burden of breathlessness, fatigue, and pain on daily life, as well as the distress that diagnosis can cause for themselves and their family, and their hopes for pursuing effective treatment despite uncertain outcomes and likely exacerbation of fatigue.

Caregivers described themes including a range of caregiving duties and the impact on reducing or stopping work, as well as limitations to social and leisure activities. Caregivers described an emotional burden of providing care, the desire for additional support, and challenges when accommodating a patient’s needs while faced with their own difficulties, as well as positive relational impacts of caregiving.

Questionnaire responses supported the patient and caregiver themes. Conceptual models will be presented using schematic diagrams.

CONCLUSIONS

: The themes and questionnaire responses demonstrate a substantial burden of MPM on patients and caregivers. Highlighted are increased impacts on both groups for more severely ill patients. This study offers perspectives on the most impactful aspects of living with MPM or caregiving for someone living with MPM, as well as the relative importance of treatment attributes for patients.