BENITA study on the use of bendamustine in the therapy of malignant lymphomas - BENITA

The present study confirms the results of earlier studies by Weide and Dhalla, according to which supportive drug therapy can significantly influence the infection rate. The study shows that active or prophylactic avoidance of infections is sought in oncology practice. Older patients appear to benefit considerably from appropriate supportive therapy. Interestingly, the results suggest that the dosage of medication depends heavily on the goals of the therapy. Since the focus was not primarily on cure, but on prolonging symptom-free and progression-free periods and maintaining quality of life, lower dosages of bendamustine axios appear to be entirely justifiable and are related to the assessment of clinical tolerability by the treating physician. The availability of monoclonal antibodies also opens further treatment options that make it possible to adapt the therapy even more individually and possibly make it even more effective. The present study shows that younger patients have a better quality of life in the emotional area due to family support and an improved ability to function due to a professional perspective and a sense of purpose. These results suggest that a holistic view of quality of life is also important for older patients. To improve the quality of life of older patients, interventions could be developed that specifically aim to strengthen family ties and social support. In addition, programs could be implemented to promote a sense of purpose at work and to maintain independence in old age. A comprehensive understanding of the individual needs of older patients is crucial to developing and implementing targeted measures to improve their quality of life.