More than 65 per cent of people living with an oncohaematological disease experience a deterioration in their employment and financial situation. This is one of the key findings of a report developed and presented by AELCLÉS, one of the Spanish member of Myeloma Patients Europe (MPE).

According to the report, over 65 per cent of respondents stated that their professional situation worsened after their diagnosis. Applications for disability benefits are also frequent, exceeding 45 per cent among people living with myeloma.

The economic impact is another central focus of the report. More than two-thirds of participants (over 66 per cent) reported a worsening of their financial situation following their illness, particularly in cases of leukaemia and lymphoma. In some specific diseases, the percentage is even higher: 82.6 per cent for chronic leukaemia, 78.9 per cent for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, 75 per cent for Hodgkin lymphoma and 70 per cent for non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

This financial strain is linked not only to reduced income, but also to significant additional monthly expenses related to the disease and its treatment.

Based on these findings, AELCLÉS proposes concrete measures across the labour, economic, social and institutional spheres. These include facilitating reintegration into the workforce through effective workplace adaptations, strengthening financial support and recognising illness-related expenses, providing adequate support for carers and ensuring comprehensive care that also addresses the social needs of patients and their families.