Let us understand myeloma as a growing health concern that may marginally raise the risk of the disease although not directly inherited in contrast to certain cancers.
VERIFIED By: Dr Sweta Lunkad, Consultant – Haemato Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune
Written by Tavishi Dogra |Updated : March 27, 2025 6:37 PM IST
Globally, myeloma, a blood cancer that affects plasma cells, is becoming a bigger health concern. Nearly 176,000 new cases of multiple myeloma are diagnosed annually worldwide, according to recent estimates. With more than 12,000 new cases reported each year, the disease’s burden is also increasing in India. Although it is still less common than other cancers, its rising incidence emphasizes the need for better treatment options, early detection, and increased awareness. Myeloma develops when plasma cells, a subset of white blood cells that produce antibodies, proliferate out of control in the bone marrow. Although the exact cause of myeloma remains unknown, environmental factors and genetic mutations are implicated. Although a family history of myeloma may marginally raise the risk, the disease is not directly inherited, in contrast to certain cancers.
Who’s At Risk?
- Myeloma has been associated with a number of risk factors. Given that most cases are diagnosed in people over 60, age is one of the most important factors. The disease is a little more common in men than in women. A higher risk has been linked to exposure to dangerous chemicals, including industrial toxins and pesticides. Over time, myeloma may also become more likely to develop in people with immune system deficiencies or illnesses such as monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS).
- Myeloma frequently progresses slowly, and in its early stages, symptoms might not show up. Chronic bone pain, exhaustion, recurrent infections, inexplicable weight loss, and kidney issues are typical symptoms as the illness worsens. Fractures can result from myeloma-induced bone damage, particularly in the ribs and spine. Many patients receive a diagnosis later on, when the disease has progressed as these symptoms can be commonly confused with those of other conditions.
Diagnosis And Treatment
- A combination of blood, urine, bone marrow, and imaging tests, including CT, MRI, and X-rays, are needed to diagnose the condition. A bone marrow biopsy aids in confirming the presence of myeloma cells, while blood tests can identify aberrant levels of proteins made by cancerous plasma cells. Better early detection has resulted in better treatment outcomes thanks to advancements in diagnostic techniques.
- When choosing a treatment plan, the patient’s general health and the disease’s stage are important considerations. The cornerstones of the disease’s treatment are immunotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation.
- A combination of blood, urine, bone marrow, and imaging tests, including CT, MRI, and X-rays, are needed to diagnose the condition. A bone marrow biopsy aids in confirming the presence of myeloma cells, while blood tests can identify aberrant levels of proteins made by cancerous plasma cells. Better early detection has resulted in better treatment outcomes thanks to advancements in diagnostic techniques.
- When choosing a treatment plan, the patient’s general health and the disease’s stage are important considerations. The cornerstones of the disease’s treatment are immunotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation.
Don’t Miss Out on the Latest Updates.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter Today!
