An Integrative Review of Sex Differences in Quality of Life and Symptoms Among Survivors of Hematologic Malignancies

Objectives: To conduct an integrative review of studies to identify disparities in quality of life (QOL), symptoms, and symptom burden between men and women diagnosed with hematologic malignancies.

Sample & Setting: 11 studies comprising 13,546 participants aged 18 years or older were included in the analysis. Studies were original peer-reviewed research published in English between January 2005 and December 2020.

Methods & Variables: A literature search was performed using keywords associated with health-related QOL, hematologic malignancy, and sex/gender differences. PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed to identify relevant studies. Data were extracted for sex differences in QOL, symptoms, and symptom burden. All studies were appraised for quality and level of evidence.

Results: Women have worse physical health and function, more pain, and higher symptom burden compared with men.

Implications for Nursing: Healthcare providers need to understand the impact of sex-based differences on QOL, symptoms, and symptom burden to provide optimal, personalized care.