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Multiple Myeloma

Disease Information

Genentech BioOncology is dedicated to advancing the science of myeloma therapy through comprehensive research programs and education. Myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells in bone marrow.¹

Myeloma Demographic Statistics

In 2010, an estimated 20,180 people in the United States were diagnosed with myeloma and about 10,650 died of the disease²
The lifetime risk of multiple myeloma is 1 in 159¹

Myeloma Epidemiology

Risk factors include age >65 years, male gender, African American ethnicity, exposure to radiation, family history (risk is 4-fold for persons with a first-degree relative who has the disease), obesity, and other plasma cell diseases¹
Some studies suggest that workplace exposure to oil may increase risk¹
The 5-year relative survival rate for multiple myeloma from 1999 to 2005 is 37%, a significant improvement over the 1975 to 1977 rates (P<0.05)²

Myeloma Symptoms

Myeloma is difficult to detect early. Many patients have no symptoms until the disease has reached an advanced stage.¹ The most common symptoms include bone pain, especially in spine, hip, and skull; anemia, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia; hypercalcemia, neurologic symptoms, decreased renal function; and frequent infection.¹