Multiple Myeloma is rarely curable, but the spread of this disease is highly manageable. Thanks to the rapid advancement in the medical facilities that there can be a quick diagnosis of the same.
Creation of Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) has led to progress of multiple myeloma therapies. There are currently 11 new drugs approved by the FDA which are in use for curing this cancer. This cancer disease usually attacks middle ages people. However, in the last few years, children are also being diagnosed with this disease.
Some key statistics for Multiple Myeloma are that in the US, it is quite an uncommon cancer disease. According to The American Cancer Society, there will be around 32 270 new cases of this cancer by the end of 2020. Similarly, there will be approximately 12,000 cases of cases on the contrary.
What is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple Myeloma is one such type of dreaded blood cancer which directly affects the plasma cells. These cells are protein-producing cells which are responsible for producing different kinds of antibodies to fight against various diseases. During the cell growth, the malignant plasma cells accumulate in bone marrow, eliminating the healthy plasma cells.
These plasma cells help in fighting infection. They produce an abnormal antibody called M Protein. This antibody is of no use rather it causes tumors and damage to the kidney. Doctors come to know about the severity of Multiple Myeloma after detecting the level of M protein in the blood. This blood cancer attacks mostly the bone marrow, including spine and pelvic bones.