Myeloma is a form of hematological cancer that affects bone marrow. The plasma cells within a patient are abnormal and multiply at a rapid rate to form tumors that dominate and crowd out normal plasma cells. This type of cancer is often referred to as ‘multiple myeloma’ because it normally involves multiple sites in the body.

Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that produce antibodies that help the body in disposing of harmful substances and is therefore part of the body’s immune system. Each cell will produce one specific kind of antibody whose job it is to attack one kind of substance.

Multiple myeloma tends to occur more often in men than women and in African-Americans than in Caucasians, the disease presents more often at age 50 plus. In the USA, the average survival rate is approximately 2.5 to 3 years but is dependent on when the diagnosis is made, how an individual responds to treatment and different support measures.

In over 75% of cases, patients present with continuous bone pain that can vary in intensity as the major symptom. Other typical symptoms prior to diagnosis are tiredness and a general weakness (related to anemia), frequent infection, excessive thirst and urination, nausea and, as bones can become more brittle, fractures are common. Suspicions often arise as a result of increased protein and calcium levels. However, it is important to note that these symptoms can also be as a result of other illnesses.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for myeloma. However, it can be treated to lessen the symptoms and stall its progress. As with other cancers, careful monitoring by the medical team is required with myeloma. Treatment primarily involves the use of chemotherapy, but steroids, radiotherapy and biological treatments (treatments that use naturally occurring substances found in the body) are also used. The use of chemotherapy and stem cell transplant is an option that the medical team will consider based on the level of fitness of the individual, in particular the patient's kidney function.

Alternative therapies are available but there is very little research to confirm whether these therapies actually work.

In summary, while multiple myeloma cannot be cured, its progress can be slowed and symptoms alleviated enough to lead a relatively normal life.