When patients are heard, they feel better: International study links compassionate communication to improved quality of life in Leukaemia 

A major global study, coordinated by international research charity, Picker, has found that clear, kind communication from healthcare teams may lead to better quality of life (QoL) for people living with leukaemia. The research, published in Cancer Control, analysed the experiences of more than 2,200 patients from 64 countries. 

What we found 

• Patients who reported that their healthcare team explained their diagnosis clearly, involved them in treatment decision-making, and communicated sensitively experienced better overall wellbeing. 
• Younger adults with leukaemia (aged 18-25) reported the highest emotional and physical burdens; a finding that diverges from existing literature, which generally indicates that older cancer patients have poorer quality of life. 
• Key predictors of poorer quality of life included feelings of isolation, depression, and disease-related anxiety.

The human impact

Leukaemia affects people emotionally as well as physically. Many patients navigate fear, uncertainty, and social isolation alongside their treatment. This study demonstrates that the quality of clinician-patient communication, not just the treatment offered, may make a difference to how patients feel day to day. 

Improved communication may be especially important for younger adults, who reported the lowest wellbeing scores in this study and who may face distinct challenges such as disruption to work, education, and social life. 

Samantha Nier, Lead Author said: 

“People with leukaemia often feel worried and alone. Our work shows that clear information and sensitive conversations may help people feel more in control of their care. Listening carefully, involving patients in decisions, and offering emotional support could make a real difference to their wellbeing.” 

The findings suggest a need for person centred leukaemia care that balances physical and mental symptom management with high-quality communication.  

The authors highlight several priorities: 

• Routine screening for psychological distress, alongside targeted interventions such as counselling and peer support groups. 
• Training programmes for healthcare professionals focused on transparent, sensitive, and accessible patient communication. 
• Targeted psychosocial support for younger patients and those with acute leukaemia, who face disproportionate burdens. 
• Advocacy organisations can intensify efforts to ensure access to information, especially for patients with lower income or education levels.

The study was conducted as an online, open questionnaire between August 2023 and January 2024. Participants were recruited through international patient advocacy networks including ALAN, CLLAN, and CMLAN. 

The study was funded by the Acute Leukaemia Advocates Network (ALAN).

Notes to editors

• For media enquiries, please contact the Picker Marketing and Communications team at [email protected] or call 01865 632 235.
• The full study is available for public access here:  bit.ly/CCGlobalStudy

Picker’s team of researchers and data scientists are available to support organisations in understanding, measuring, and using workforce and user experience. For queries about our services or to request a call, please contact [email protected].