What is MYELOMA?
¡ Multiple myeloma, also called simply “myeloma,” is a cancer of the bone marrow plasma cells. Myeloma is called “multiple” because there are frequently multiple areas in the bone marrow where it grows. Myeloma cells are cancerous plasma cells.
¡ Myeloma is treatable and many patients live long and productive lives after being diagnosed.
¡ The National Cancer Institute SEER Program estimates that 35,780 new cases of myeloma were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2024.
¡ In 70% of patients, the most common symptoms of myeloma are back or bone pain, unexplained fatigue, and recurrent or persistent infections.
¡ Men are more likely than women to develop myeloma. It is most frequently diagnosed in individuals who are 65–74 years old, but it is now also being diagnosed in people younger than 50.
¡ Myeloma is the most common blood cancer in patients of African descent, who have twice the risk of developing myeloma when compared to White patients. Visit mpower.myeloma.org. You are not alone.
The IMF is here to help.
¡ The mission of the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) is to improve the quality of life of myeloma patients while working toward prevention and a cure.
¡ The IMF vision is to realize a world where every myeloma patient can live life to the fullest, unburdened by the disease.
What is the IMF?
The International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) is the global leader in myeloma, reaching 525,000 patients in 140 countries. Since 1990, the IMF has been serving the myeloma community through these four pillars:
RESEARCH At the IMF, finding a cure for myeloma is our top priority. The IMF Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) of leading myeloma experts identifies key opportunities to drive research forward. The IMF Black Swan Research Initiative® (BSRI®) is pushing the boundaries of clinical trials. The IMF International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) provides trusted guidelines for diagnosing, treating, and managing myeloma. The IMF also funds innovative research through its Brian D. Novis Research Grants.
EDUCATION Myeloma is a complex and unique journey for each patient. The IMF provides information and support for patients and care partners from diagnosis to long-term survival. The IMF M-Power Project works to break down barriers and ensure health equity in underserved populations.
SUPPORT The IMF offers more than 160 myeloma support groups across North America, including groups for Spanish-speakers, people with smoldering disease, care partners of patients with myeloma, and patients without care partners. The IMF InfoLine helps with your myeloma-related questions. The IMF “Myelo” AI chatbot helps you find the right resources.
ADVOCACY The IMF is working to improve patient access to treatment, both in the United States and around the globe.
4400 Coldwater Canyon Avenue #300 – Studio City, CA 91604
1.818.487.7455 TheIMF@myeloma.org myeloma.org
Visit myeloma.org and engage with us on social media! facebook.com/myeloma x.com/IMFmyeloma instagram.com/IMFmyeloma
