Myeloma is a cancer of the bone marrow plasma cells. It represents about 2% of all new cancer cases in the U.S., with about 35,000 people diagnosed annually. Myeloma is considered incurable but enormous progress is being made with new treatments.
Do race and ethnicity matter?
Health disparities in myeloma are dramatic.
Myeloma is the most common blood cancer in individuals of African descent.
Black patients have twice the risk of developing myeloma when compared to White patients.
Black and Hispanic patients are diagnosed younger on average than White patients.
Diagnosis is often made later in the disease course in Black patients than in White patients.
Black patients have less access to treatment.
Mortality is twice as high in Black patients.
What’s the good news?
CURE of myeloma is nearly in sight. When barriers to early diagnosis are removed and access to treatment is equitable, Black patients have the same survival as White patients. Many patients live long and productive lives.
The M-Power program is changing the course of myeloma by breaking down barriers to health equity and raising myeloma awareness.
Dr. Joseph Mikhael is the IMF’s Chief Medical Officer and Professor at the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) at City of Hope Cancer Center – Phoenix. As a clinician, he works with countless myeloma patients. As an educator, he raises awareness of the signs and symptoms of myeloma among healthcare professionals as well as in the community. “Removing barriers to health equity improves outcomes of African American patients.”
The IMF is here to help YOU
The IMF is dedicated to improving the quality of life of myeloma patients while working toward prevention and a cure. We provide free-of-charge services, programs, and resources to patients with myeloma and their care partners, friends, families, and communities.
The IMF’s InfoLine coordinators are trained to address myeloma-related questions and concerns in a caring and compassionate manner with up-to-date information about treatment options, finding a local support group or a myeloma doctor, and potential sources of relief for your expenses. Contact the IMF InfoLine at 1.818.487.7455 or InfoLine@myeloma.org or learn more about myeloma at myeloma.org.
Tiffany was diagnosed with myeloma in 2013. She is now a leader of a myeloma support group and an advocate at the forefront of raising myeloma awareness and shining a light on health disparities. For Tiffany, the “silver lining” of her myeloma diagnosis is “not taking time for granted... It’s the here. It’s the now. Tomorrow isn’t promised.”
Gail is a Community Health Educator and co-leader of a myeloma support group. Diagnosed in 2008, she has closely followed the developments in the field. “Advances are being made in part because myeloma clinical research has become so patientcentric, and the IMF has been key to myeloma patients having a voice and a seat at the table.”
MYELOMA PATIENT STORIES
Earlier diagnosis means better outcomes
Earlier diagnosis of myeloma can result in earlier treatment and fewer complications.
Any ONE of these early warning signs could be an indication of myeloma:
Unexplained tiredness or weakness,
Bone pain or an unexplained fracture,
Recurring or persistent infections.
Delayed diagnosis can mean more complications. If you or your doctor suspect that you might have myeloma, do not delay in getting an opinion from a myeloma specialist, in person or remotely.
Jameca was diagnosed with myeloma at age 26. “It was shocking for my family members and friends. They surrounded me so much with love.” Her advice to other patients is: “Be empowered by knowing that you have full control to a certain extent over your care and your treatment. Be kind to yourself and have patience with the transition that will occur. This journey of survivorship is a process where you learn as you go.”
Thomas (left, with Yelak Biru) was diagnosed in 2005 at age 34.
Thomas is now a leader of a myeloma support group powerful with knowledge, and he has this advice to share with others:
“Know your body. Don’t be scared to get tested. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. It’s okay to question the doctors. It’s okay to get a second opinion.”
MYELOMA PATIENT STORIES
Knowledge is POWER
M-Power is empowering healthcare professionals, community leaders, and families to break down barriers by raising myeloma awareness. Visit one of our M-POWERed partner cities that are changing the course of myeloma: Atlanta Baltimore Charlotte New York City Tampa
Visit mpower.myeloma.org or use the QR code to view the YouTube video by Dr. Joseph Mikhael about disparities in myeloma diagnosis and treatment, representation in clinical trials, the importance of achieving health equity, and what actions are being taken by M-Power.
Robert, a pastor and retired businessman, was diagnosed with myeloma in 2014 during a routine physical exam as he was preparing to run a 15k race, which had been his personal challenge and tradition for 18 years. Robert now counsels others who have myeloma, and he practices what he preaches: “I keep the message simple and deliver it with love.”
Terrence survived prostate cancer, then came myeloma. “My mindset is to look for the positives,” he says. “And my wife Toni has been totally amazing throughout.” Adds Toni, “Patients and caregivers need to know that there are resources out there. Ask questions. Don’t be intimidated. Get a doctor who is a myeloma doctor. And take care of yourself, too.”
MYELOMA PATIENT STORIES
Yelak Biru, IMF President & Chief Executive Officer, was diagnosed with myeloma in 1995 at age 25. He was newly married to Loul Haugs and anticipating a full life ahead. Then his doctor said, “You may not make it to age 30.” Yelak joined a myeloma support group, which he later co-led, then became a myeloma advocate who has represented U.S. patients on a global platform. Now, he is leading the IMF toward a future where no one dies from myeloma.
