Updated on April 2, 2024.
Multiple myeloma (MM) is cancer that begins when plasma cells develop changes that become cancer. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that are mainly found in bone marrow and make substances called antibodies that fight infections.
When plasma cells develop into cancer, they crowd out other types of blood cells in the bone marrow, which can llead to a decrease in red blood cells (which carry oxygen throughout your body) and white blood cells (which help fight infection). MM can also form tumors in the bones and produce abnormal proteins. All of this can lead to a number of complications, including anemia (anemia), infections (caused by low numbers of white blood cells), broken bones, and kidney problems.
Over the past decade, there have been major improvements in the treatment of MM, which have made it very treatable.
Risk factors for MM
The cause of MM is unknown, though there are a number of known risk factors for MM. A risk factor is something that increases the chances of developing a medical condition. Many of the risk factors for MM are beyond a person’s control. These include:
- Age. A person’s risk of developing MM increases with age. The average age of people diagnosed with MM is between 65 and 70 years old. However, it does occur in people who are older, and people who are much younger.
- Sex. MM is slightly more common in people who sex assigned at birth is male.
- Family history. People who have an immediate family member with MM such as a mother, father, brother or sister are slightly more at risk for developing MM. However, MM does not appear to be a hereditary disease that is passed down through families.
- Medical history. People who have a history of other diseases that affect plasma cells are at increased risk for developing MM.
- Race. MM is twice as common among African Americans than it is among Caucasians.
Additionally, being overweight or obese increases a person’s risk of developing MM. Because strategies like a healthy diet, regular exercise, and working with a healthcare provider may help manage weight, this is considered a risk factor over which you may have some control.
It’s important to remember that these risk factors only slightly increase a person’s chance of developing MM.
Controlling what you can
While you may not have control over most of the risk factors listed above, there are still many things that may help you improve your health and feel a sense of control if you've been diagnosed with MM:
- Exercise. Regular exercise as you are able can boost mood, reduce fatigue, and improve overall quality of life. Exercise does not have to be strenuous. Talk to your healthcare provider about what types of exercise are safe for you.
- Follow-up care. Because there is no cure for MM, and relapses are common, it is very important to keep up with your appointments. MM requires regular monitoring. Your healthcare providers also need to know about your symptoms and any side effects from treatment.
- Support groups. It can be helpful to talk to other people who share your diagnosis, or a similar diagnosis. Contact your local hospital or healthcare center and ask about cancer support groups, or consider participating in an online support group.
- Make time for yourself. Living with cancer can be mentally and emotionally demanding, and it is important to take time for yourself. Find time to do something relaxing or enjoyable each day, whether it’s read, keep a journal, meditate, spend time on a hobby, or listen to music.
- Remember nutrition. Your appetite and nutritional needs may change as a result of cancer and cancer treatment. Talk to your healthcare provider about what foods you need and how to cope with changes in appetite.
For further questions about support while living with MM, how it is treated, and what costs your insurance may cover, speak with your healthcare provider.
