Turning Healthy Cells Deadly
Multiple myeloma is a cancer that forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. Healthy plasma cells help fight infections by making proteins called antibodies, which find and fight germs. But with multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells build up in bone marrow – the soft matter inside bones where blood cells are made. The cancer cells crowd out healthy cells and may weaken the bones.
March is Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month, a good time to get educated on this form of cancer. Multiple myeloma treatment is not always needed immediately. If it is slow growing and is not causing symptoms, keeping a close watch may be the first step. Those who are having symptoms do need to seek treatment. Among the symptoms can be bone pain, nausea, constipation, mental confusion, weight loss, weakness, and the need to urinate frequently.
Some Groups Susceptible
Scientists do not fully understand the causes of this type of cancer, but they do know it is common among some groups. This includes older people, especially older men and African Americans. Black people are more likely to develop multiple myeloma than people of other races. In addition, having a sibling or parent with this disease increases the risk an individual will develop it.
The National Cancer Institute estimated nearly 36,000 people in the United States would receive a diagnosis in 2024 and more than 12,000 would die from it. There is no way to prevent multiple myeloma, so if a person gets it, they did not do anything to cause it.
Talk with Your Doctor
Go get checked. Talk with your primary care provider about cancer screenings. Also, if you have a loved one or friend who is suffering from multiple myeloma, consider organizing an event or fundraiser to help attack this dreaded disease.
Consider donating to our Good Samaritan Cancer Fund, which helps patients who are struggling to pay for their medication, transportation to appointments, hotel stays for long visits, and other costs. You can also be a part of our annual fundraiser.
Consider a Gift
Consider being a part of our annual fundraiser to combat cancer called Path to the Cure. You can also donate to our Good Samaritan Cancer Fund, which helps patients who are struggling to pay for their medication, transportation to appointments, hotel stays for long visits, and other costs.
