Context Accumulating data have shown that several factors influence quality of life (QOL) in oncology patients, making this an important clinical endpoint. Such studies have concluded that gender differences exist for QOL symptoms; therefore, these should be incorporated into clinical decision-making to optimize patient management and improve outcomes. Despite this knowledge, there is a paucity of QOL data characterizing gender differences in hematologic malignancies. Health care providers should be cognizant of this data, as gender differences warrant diverse clinical approaches. Objective The aim of this integrative review is to summarize data from published literature encompassing comparisons of QOL outcomes between men and women diagnosed with any hematologic malignancy and identify knowledge gaps with implications for future intervention-based research aimed at improving QOL symptoms based on the gender of the individual. Methods A systematic literature search using appropriate keywords was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases to identify research published between 2005 and 2021. Eligibility criteria included studies (1) comparing QOL symptoms as an outcome between men and women with any hematologic malignancy; (2) with patients ≥18 years old; (3) using a validated QOL instrument; and (4) published in English. Manuscripts were screened and extracted using Covidence software and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Results Preliminary search strategy from PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases yielded 511 studies meeting eligibility criteria. After selective screening for eligibility criteria and excluding duplicates, nine studies remained for detailed analysis. A review of the published research showed that women reported more pain, greater physical impact of disease and treatment, worse fatigue, fatigue severity with interference, and higher symptom burden compared to men. Level of evidence criteria was defined as being strong if two or more high-quality studies resulted in consistent findings. Conclusions The impact of QOL symptoms based on sex as a biological variable in various hematologic malignancies is an important consideration for providing gender-competent care. Data shows that QOL symptoms differ between genders across several hematologic malignancies. However, research is inadequate regarding the clinical recognition or effective management based on gender. The results of this review will provide information to deliver more personalized and gender-centered care.
