Multiple Myeloma

In the U.S., more than 150,000 people are living with multiple myeloma (MM).

Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer in which abnormal plasma cells grow uncontrollably in the bone marrow. Approximately 35,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, and incidence continues to rise.

Although there is no cure, advances in treatment have significantly improved survival, allowing many people with MM to live for years—and sometimes decades—after diagnosis.

When we share our health care journey, we can inspire others to take action, which may improve their healthcare outcomes.

Patient stories

Hear real patients stories from patients like you.

“I wish I had known more about multiple myeloma before I was diagnosed.

Had I known, that the African American community was at GREATER risk, I might have seen a doctor sooner. I think it’s really important that our community take charge of their own health.”

—Sean, Multiple Myeloma Patient

“Most people don’t know that a clinical trial may be the only way to newer and more advanced treatments. This is especially true in cancer, where there is no ‘placebo’, so this means we are not ‘guinea pigs’.

By participating in a cancer clinical trial, I am getting what I would have been getting anyways from my doctor, or I could be getting something better. On top of that, some of the costs for my care and my treatment are covered.”

—Sean, Multiple Myeloma Patient

Interested in sharing your story? If you participate, you will be paid for your time.

African American Community

Black Americans are two times more likely to get multiple myeloma (MM), and two times more likely to die from it.

Studies show that Black / African Americans are diagnosed with multiple myeloma at a younger age, are more likely to experience delays in treatment, do not get access to the newest treatments, and are less likely to participate in clinical trials.
Black / African Americans also experience a higher rate* of MGUS (Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance), a pre-cancerous blood protein condition that may become multiple myeloma.
If you do have MGUS, it is important to be monitored by your doctor regularly, so if MGUS does turn into MM, you can catch and get treated for MM early.

There are currently no standardized screening programs for MM, so it is especially important for Black / African Americans to go to your doctor if symptoms present, since this community is at higher risk for MM. *Compared to white Americans

Hispanic American Community

Hispanic Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with multiple myeloma, and about 5 years younger, compared to White Americans.

Research shows that Hispanic Americans often experience longer delays between initial symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Hispanic Americans face additional barriers including limited access to specialized treatment centers and clinical trials. The lack of educational materials in Spanish can significantly impact understanding of treatment options and follow-up care, often leading to higher rates of complications due to delayed diagnosis.

What are the risk factors for multiple myeloma (MM)?

The risk of getting multiple myeloma increases with age, especially after age 65, no matter your racial or ethnic background, but Black /African Americans at greater risk of getting MM 5-10 years younger than White Americans. MM is slightly more common in men than women.

It’s important to understand risk factors for MM, know your family history, go to the doctor for annual checkups, and know the symptoms of MM so you can ask to be tested for MM.

Other risk factors include:

Having an immediate family member who has multiple myeloma (second-degree relatives with MM can make you have higher risk)
Being African American
Ages 70+
Being overweight
Radiation exposure
Certain autoimmune conditions
Family history of (any) blood cancer
Have a condition called MGUS, (Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance) a pre-cancerous blood protein condition that may become cancer

It is important to be monitored by your doctor regularly if you do have MGUS so if this condition does turn into MM, you can catch and be treated for MM early.

What are symptoms of multiple myeloma (MM)?

Since 40-50% of MM patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage (Stage 3), it is important to know the symptoms of MM:

Bone pain, such as dull aches in your bones, especially the back, ribs or hips
Frequent or slow-healing infections
Unexplained kidney problems
Unusual bleeding, including frequent nose bleeds, bleeding gums or heavier than normal menstruation
Anemia or Low levels of iron in your blood
Too much calcium in your blood

How can I get tested for multiple myeloma (MM)?

Testing for MM includes a combination of blood and urine tests to check for elevated protein levels, specifically M proteins, which can indicate cancer in the blood.

Healthcare providers use the CRAB criteria to help diagnose multiple myeloma:

Calcium elevation: High calcium levels in your blood
Renal dysfunction: Kidney problems or declining kidney function
Anemia: Low red blood cell counts causing fatigue and weakness
Bone lesions: Damage to bones that can be seen on X-rays or scans

Regular monitoring is particularly important if you have MGUS (Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance), as this condition can progress to multiple myeloma.

Screening should begin earlier for high-risk groups, particularly African Americans and those with a family history of the disease.

Finally, a bone marrow biopsy is used to confirm the diagnosis of MM: this may be recommended for high-risk cases.

What if you have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma (MM)?

First, don’t lose hope. There are many FDA-approved treatment options. Work with your doctor and consult with a hematologist-oncologist, a specialist who identifies and treats blood cancers.

Have you considered joining a clinical trial?
If you are interested in joining a clinical trial or if you want to learn more—Let’s get connected.

Interested in sharing your story?
We want to hear from you. We must raise our voices to ensure that health care works for all of us. If you are selected, you will be paid for your time.