Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that starts in the plasma cells within the bone marrow, which is inside certain bones. When these plasma cells behave normally, they make proteins called antibodies that strengthen the immune system.
With multiple myeloma, however, plasma cells grow abnormally. When this happens, the cells are called myeloma cells. They gather in the bone marrow and crowd out healthy blood cells, then travel through the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body.
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Dedicated to Improving Quality of Life
Fred Hutch hematologist-oncologist Rahul Banerjee, MD, FACP is a leader in research related to multiple myeloma treatment. He’s dedicated to finding new ways to help patients with multiple myeloma experience a better quality of life.
Like many other cancers, no one knows exactly why multiple myeloma develops in some people. However, every day, Fred Hutch scientists are at the forefront of cancer research, making new discoveries and finding new ways to treat multiple myeloma and other forms of cancer. Learn more about research and clinical trials for multiple myeloma.
No one knows the exact cause of multiple myeloma. However, certain factors can make it more likely that someone will develop the disease. The risk factors for multiple myeloma include:
- Being Black
- Being exposed to certain toxic chemicals
- Being male
- Being obese
- Being over age 65
- Having a family history of the disease
- Being exposed to high levels of radiation
- Having a history of plasma cell diseases
Myeloma regularly occurs at multiple places within the bone marrow, not just one. Because of this, it is usually called multiple myeloma more often than it is called myeloma. But, whether you see the word “myeloma” or the term “multiple myeloma,” it is talking about the same disease.
First, recognize that the signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma are also signs and symptoms that apply to other conditions, not necessarily cancer. Next, make an appointment with your primary care provider so you can get answers.
If you’re concerned about risk, here are some questions you may want to ask:
- Do I have any risk factors for multiple myeloma?
- Is there any reason to think I’m at higher risk than the average person?
- If I am at higher risk, what does this mean for me? Do I need any tests or procedures to check for multiple myeloma even if I feel fine?
- Is there anything I can do to lower my risk?
If you have symptoms that concern you, here are some questions to ask:
- What could be causing my symptoms?
- Do these symptoms mean I might have a serious condition?
- How can we find out the cause? Do I need any tests?
- What should I do if my symptoms don’t get better or if I get new symptoms?
Survival rates show what percentage of people who have the same type and stage of disease are still alive after a certain amount of time (usually five years) after they were diagnosed. It’s important to understand that they cannot show you how long a person will live. The average five-year relative survival rate for multiple myeloma is approximately 62% according to the National Cancer Institute. Your Fred Hutch care team can explain how statistics like survival rates might apply to you.