What is myeloma and should you be tested?
Australia has one of the highest rates of multiple myeloma in the world, but treatment options are improving.
Myeloma or multiple myeloma, is a blood cancer that develops from plasma cells within the body’s bone marrow.
Although a rare disease, a 2018 report found global incidence of myeloma had doubled since 1990 and Australia and New Zealand had among the highest rate of cases.
Around 2600 new cases are expected to be diagnosed in Australia this year.
More common in men, the five-year survival rate is 55 per cent.
Common symptoms of myeloma include:
- Anaemia, feeling drowsy or confused
- Bone pain/weakness or fractures
- Tiredness
- Frequent infections
- Kidney problems
What causes myeloma?
The exact cause of myeloma is not known.
Over exposure to chemicals, radiation and viruses are thought to increase the risk of developing the disease.
Susceptibility to these factors often increases with age and a decreasing immune system, says Myeloma Australia interim CEO Hayley Beer.
“The average age of diagnosis is around 70, but it can affect people in their 20s,” Hayley says.
“Only around five per cent of cases diagnosed are under 50.”
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How is myeloma diagnosed?
If symptoms raise concern a person may have myeloma, blood and/or urine tests can detect an antibody called paraprotein that myeloma cells produce.
A bone marrow test and x-rays are usually needed to confirm a diagnosis and decide if treatment is needed.
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre haemotologist Professor Simon Harrison says it is vital to see your GP if you experience irregular fractures, breaks or bone pain outside of your usual symptoms – especially if a family member has myeloma.
“The most important thing to know is if you’re not feeling well, you should check with your doctor,” Prof Harrison says.
How is myeloma treated?
Treatment for myeloma depends on factors including a person’s general health and the stage of disease.
Modern therapies for myeloma include targeted therapy (drug treatments that focus on specific weaknesses within the cancer cells) and immunotherapy.
While there is currently no cure for myeloma, treatment options are constantly getting better, with promising results in helping to control the disease, manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Click her to learn more about myeloma or call 1800 MYELOMA (693 566).
September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month. To learn more about myeloma, tune into House of Wellness TV, Fridays at 2pm and Sundays at noon on network 7.
Written by Ella Cigognini.
