Nutritional Habits in Plasma Cell Disorder Patients: Insights for Therapy

Overview

This study assessed dietary patterns in 443 individuals with plasma cell disorders (PCDs), revealing that higher BMI correlates with poorer diet quality and that education level influences healthier eating habits. Participants exhibited better overall diet quality than the general U.S. population, with notable differences by sex, BMI, and education.

Background

Plasma cell disorders encompass a range of conditions from MGUS and smoldering multiple myeloma to malignant multiple myeloma. Advances in therapy have improved survival, highlighting the importance of lifestyle factors such as diet in long-term health. Prior evidence links dietary patterns and obesity with PCD risk and outcomes, but data on nutrition in this population remain limited. This study aimed to characterize dietary habits in individuals with PCDs to identify potential targets for intervention.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Participants with obesity had significantly lower HEI scores (65) compared to those with normal BMI (72), indicating poorer diet quality (p < 0.001).
• Higher education levels were associated with better diet quality, including higher fiber intake and trends toward higher fruit consumption and lower added sugar intake.
• Males consumed more calories but less fiber and vegetables than females (p < 0.001 for all).
• Hispanic, non-Hispanic Asian, and Black participants reported lower daily caloric intake compared to others (p = 0.019).
• Participants with precursor conditions reported lower fruit intake but tended to consume more vegetables and less added sugar than those with multiple myeloma.
• Overall, study participants had higher HEI scores than the general U.S. population across age and sex groups.

Clinical Implications

These findings suggest that dietary interventions targeting individuals with higher BMI could improve diet quality and potentially influence disease progression and outcomes in PCDs. Addressing educational and socioeconomic barriers may enhance adherence to dietary guidelines, particularly by promoting increased fiber and fruit intake and reducing added sugars. Tailored nutritional counseling considering sex and racial/ethnic differences may further optimize patient care.

Conclusion

Individuals with plasma cell disorders demonstrate varied dietary patterns influenced by BMI, education, and demographic factors, with overall better diet quality than the general population. Targeted nutritional strategies may offer a valuable adjunct to therapeutic approaches in this population.

References

1. HealthTree Foundation/2023-2024 -- Nutritional Habits in Patients with Plasma Cell Disorders