Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer caused by abnormal plasma cells. While it is most commonly seen in adults over the age of forty, it can be diagnosed at any age. The people most likely to get multiple myeloma are those who are older, have a family history of the disease, have weakened immune systems, smoke, or have already had radiation or chemotherapy treatment.
Additionally, African Americans are more likely to get multiple myeloma, while Caucasians seem to be at a slightly lower risk. People with certain genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, are also at greater risk.
Although anyone can get this type of cancer, doctors have identified the highest risk factors and it is important to be aware of those.
How do you help someone with myeloma?
Helping someone with myeloma begins with understanding the disease. Myeloma is a form of cancer that affects the plasma cells in the bone marrow. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce or eliminate the disease and relieve symptoms.
One way to help is by providing emotional and moral support. Myeloma can be a difficult and stressful diagnosis, and it is important to be there to talk and listen, help with decision making, make sure the person is attending necessary appointments and taking any medications, and offer comfort and hope.
Educating yourself about the disease is a great way to help. Learning about types of treatment, side effects, support systems, and resources can help you provide the best level of support for the individual.
Another way to help is by providing practical support. This includes running errands, helping with transportation, and providing meals. Household tasks such as grocery shopping, laundry, and cleaning can also be of great relief.
Finally, consider joining a local support group or an online community of people affected by myeloma. This can provide access to knowledgeable advisers, based on their experience with the same condition.
It can be a great source of comfort and motivation, and give you and the person with myeloma access to great resources and information.
Where does myeloma spread to first?
Myeloma is an incurable cancer of plasma cells which usually involves the bone marrow and the bones of the body. Depending on the individual, myeloma can spread to other organs and parts of the body as well.
When myeloma is at an advanced stage, it can spread from the bone marrow to the bones, and this is usually the first place where it will spread. The areas of the bones that are typically affected include the vertebrae of the spine, the ribs, the pelvic bones, and the long bones in the arms and legs.
In addition, myeloma can spread to organs like the kidneys, the lungs, and even other parts of the body like the liver and skin. If myeloma is left untreated, it can also spread to the brain and spinal cord, leading to neurological problems.
It is important to talk to your doctor if you are concerned about the signs and symptoms of myeloma, and to get regular check-ups to monitor any progression of the disease.
Why is myeloma more common in Black people?
Myeloma, or multiple myeloma, is a cancer of plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell. It is more common in people of African descent, and the exact reasons for this are uncertain. Some factors such as a person’s genetic background, environment, lifestyle, and access to healthcare may all be contributing to a heightened risk among the Black population.
Genetic variations could explain why multiple myeloma is more common among people of African descent. Specifically, researchers have identified two genetic variants that are more often found in people of African descent and which may be associated with an increased risk of multiple myeloma.
Environmental factors such as air pollution, exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, and certain hormones have all been linked to higher cancer risk. The Black population may be exposed to higher levels of these and other environmental toxins, adding to their risk.
Lifestyle and access to health care may also explain why multiple myeloma is more common among Black people. Black people are more likely to live in lower-income neighborhoods that have higher rates of smoking and lack access to healthcare.
They are also more likely in the US to lack health insurance and have difficulty getting timely medical care. All of these factors can contribute to an increase in multiple myeloma diagnoses.
Although the exact cause of why myeloma is more common in Black people is not known, it is likely to be a mix of genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and access to healthcare factors. Researchers are continuing to study this, and further knowledge gained may help to identify better ways to reduce the risk and improve outcomes for people of African descent.
In what ethnic group is more frequent multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a cancer that develops due to abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow, and it is more common in certain ethnic groups. African Americans, Caribbean Hispanics, and African-born individuals have an increased risk of multiple myeloma, with the greatest risk among African Americans.
African Americans are up to three times more likely to be diagnosed with multiple myeloma than Caucasians. Southeast Asians may also have an increased risk of multiple myeloma. Studies are still being conducted to better understand why these ethnic groups are more likely to develop multiple myeloma.
Factors could include genetic susceptibility, presence of certain autoimmune diseases, dietary and lifestyle characteristics, environment or occupational exposure, or poverty and unequal access to healthcare.
What are high risk genetics for myeloma?
Myeloma is a type of cancer of the blood cells that is caused by an accumulation of abnormal plasma cells. The cause of myeloma is currently unknown, but there are certain genetic factors that may increase a person’s risk of developing the disease.
These high risk genetics for myeloma include:
• Age – Myeloma is a disease of older individuals and risk increases with age, as most people diagnosed with myeloma are over the age of 65.
• Certain genetic mutations – Possession of certain genetic mutations, including but not limited to FGFR3, c-Myc, and Lamb-3, have been associated with an increased risk of myeloma. People with certain inherited immune disorders, like X-linked agammaglobulinemia, may be at a higher risk for myeloma.
• Ethnicity – Certain ethnicities such as African-Americans and Afro-Caribbeans are more likely to develop myeloma, than Caucasian or Asian individuals.
• Radiation exposure – People who have had high doses of radiation exposure may also be at an elevated risk of myeloma.
• Spouse with myeloma – Spouses of individuals who have myeloma are more likely to develop myeloma than the general population.
Other risk factors associated with myeloma include having HIV/AIDS, working with certain types of chemicals and having a family history of myeloma. It is important to discuss your individual risk factors with your healthcare provider, in order to plan an appropriate screening and treatment plan for your particular situation.
What age is myeloma most common?
Myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is most commonly diagnosed in adults age 65 and older. While it is a relatively rare cancer, accounting for less than 1% of all cancer cases, it is considered the second most common type of blood cancer in the United States.
According to the American Cancer Society, about 32,330 new cases of myeloma will be diagnosed and there will be over 12,000 deaths resulting from the disease in 2021. While there is no single cause of myeloma and the exact reason why it develops in some people is still not known, it is believed that it is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Certain risk factors, such as family history and age, can increase the chances of developing the disease. Although myeloma can occur at any age, the median age of diagnosis is 72.
What is a high risk myeloma patient?
A high risk myeloma patient is someone who has been diagnosed with myeloma and whose prognosis, or predicted outcome, is considered higher risk than others. High risk patients are generally determined to be those with numerous tumor lesions, advanced stage myeloma, poor kidney function, or other conditions that can complicate the use of certain treatments.
Other factors that may be considered when determining a high risk patient include the doctor’s assessment of a person’s overall health, drug intolerances and past experience with certain types of treatments.
Myeloma patients with certain ‘high risk’ genes, such as t(4;14) and del(17p) may also be considered at higher risk. Although many high risk patients may have a poorer prognosis, it is important to remember that each person is different and that there is still a chance for a good response to treatments.
In addition, the use of newer therapies have made it possible for some high risk patients to have improved outcomes.
Is myeloma genetic risk?
Myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells of the immune system, and while it can affect anyone at any age, the risk increases with age. So a definitive answer as to whether it is a genetic risk is unknown.
However, research has suggested that the risk of myeloma may be inherited, as some forms of the disease occur more often in those with a family history of it. In addition, some families appear to be more likely to develop certain myeloma-related genetic mutations, suggesting that genetics may play a role in myeloma risk.
Recent research has been focused on the role of genetics in myeloma risk, and while no single gene or mutation has been identified as the cause, certain genetic mutations have been linked to an increased myeloma risk.
These include mutations in the p53, ATM (ataxia telangiectasia mutated) and MYD88 genes, as well as some of the leukemia/lymphoma associated genes.
Given that research into the genetic influences of myeloma is ongoing, it is not possible to conclude for certain whether myeloma is a genetic risk. However, research does suggest that genetic mutations may increase the risk of developing the disease, indicating that genetics may play a role.
Therefore, it is important for individuals with a family history of myeloma to discuss their risk with their physician.
What Can multiple myeloma be mistaken for?
Multiple myeloma cannot be mistaken for any other condition because it affects a specific type of cells in the body. However, some of the symptoms of multiple myeloma can be similar to those caused by other conditions.
Symptoms such as fatigue, bone pain, or anemia can be indicative of other illnesses such as leukemia or an autoimmune disorder. Additionally, the diagnosis of multiple myeloma involves tests and procedures to rule out similar conditions.
These tests may include complete blood counts, urine protein electrophoresis, bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and X-ray imaging. Ultimately, the only way to definitively diagnose multiple myeloma is through a combination of these tests and a careful review of your medical history.
When should I suspect myeloma?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should suspect myeloma and consult your doctor:
•Unexplained or persistent fatigue
•Unexplained weight loss
•Increased risk of infections
•Bone pain, particularly in the lower back
•Bone fractures for no apparent reason
•Easy bruising or bleeding
•Anemia
•Unusually severe headaches
•Confusion or memory loss
•Numbness or weakness in the legs
•Excessive thirst
•Excessive urination
•Abnormal liver function test
•High levels of calcium in the blood
•Excessive production of abnormal proteins in the blood or urine
What is the first symptom of multiple myeloma that a client typically presents with on a visit to the primary care provider?
The first symptom of multiple myeloma that a client typically presents with on a visit to the primary care provider is usually related to increased levels of calcium in the blood, due to excess production of monoclonal immunoglobulin or paraprotein.
Commonly, clients can experience fatigue, unexplained weight loss, frequent infections, bone pain, and/or hyperviscosity (thickened blood) that requires frequent laboratory testing. Additionally, clients may report decreased appetite, muscle weakness and a feeling of general “illness” that can last for weeks.
As multiple myeloma is a protein-producing cancer of the plasma cells, the primary care provider will typically order a blood count, leading to an increased level of circulating plasma cells, monoclonal proteins, and increased levels of calcium, referred to as “hypercalcemia” or “high calcium”.
In some cases, an MRI or X-ray is ordered to evaluate the level of bone involvement. Additional tests may be ordered to more accurately diagnose the condition, such as a skeletal survey, PET-CT scan, full metabolic panel, and immunofixation.
If multiple myeloma is suspected, referral to a hematologist/oncologist is warranted to begin treatment which will likely include chemotherapy, steroids, and/or radiation.