If you’ve heard the term "multiple myeloma" and wondered what it actually means, you’re not alone. It’s a type of blood cancer that starts in the plasma cells – the cells that make antibodies to fight infections. When these cells go rogue, they crowd out the healthy ones and cause a host of problems.
Most people don’t realize they have it until they notice a few warning signs. Fatigue, bone pain (especially in the back or ribs), frequent infections, and an unusual amount of bruising are common clues. If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth chatting with a doctor and getting some basic blood tests.
Diagnosis usually begins with a simple blood test that checks for abnormal proteins. These proteins, called M‑protein, are a hallmark of the disease. If the blood work looks off, doctors will order a bone‑marrow biopsy. That’s a tiny sample from inside the bone to see how many plasma cells are growing out of control.
Imaging is another piece of the puzzle. X‑rays, MRI, or CT scans can show bone lesions or fractures that often come with multiple myeloma. All these steps help doctors figure out the stage of the disease, which guides treatment choices.
The good news is that treatment has improved a lot in recent years. The first line of attack usually involves a combination of drugs called chemotherapy, steroids, and newer agents like proteasome inhibitors (think drugs such as bortezomib). These aim to shrink the cancer and relieve symptoms.
For many patients, a stem‑cell transplant is an option after the initial drug therapy. It’s not a cure, but it can push the disease into a long remission. Newer treatments like monoclonal antibodies (e.g., daratumumab) and CAR‑T cell therapy are also becoming more common, especially for people whose disease comes back.
Supportive care matters a lot, too. Bone‑strengthening medicines, pain management, and antibiotics to prevent infections keep quality of life as high as possible. Lifestyle tweaks – staying active, eating balanced meals, and staying hydrated – can help the body cope with treatment side effects.
Living with multiple myeloma can feel overwhelming, but knowing the signs, understanding how it’s diagnosed, and being aware of treatment options can give you a solid footing. Talk to your healthcare team, ask questions, and don’t shy away from seeking a second opinion if you need it. Knowledge empowers you to make the best decisions for your health.
Farooq Oreagba, MD of NG Clearing Limited, shares his eight-year-long journey battling multiple myeloma, an incurable cancer, during an interview with ARISE NEWS. In remission since a bone marrow transplant in 2014, Oreagba now supports fellow patients and raises funds for cancer charities. He remains dedicated to his work in financial services and actively spreads awareness about cancer.
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