Myeloma is the 2nd most common form of blood cancer, yet sadly most people have never heard of it. Myeloma is associated with the abnormal behaviour and uncontrolled growth of a type of white blood cell—the plasma cell. Plasma cells are made in the bone marrow—the spongy tissue found inside bones—and when they’re healthy, they are an important part of your body’s immune system because they help fight infection by producing antibodies that attack germs.

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In myeloma, the plasma cells become cancerous (myeloma cells) and interfere with the production of healthy blood cells in the bone marrow. Instead of producing antibodies that fight infection and disease, myeloma cells produce abnormal proteins (called monoclonal protein, monoclonal immunoglobulin, or M-protein). These can cause serious complications and affect different parts of the body such as the bones and kidneys. Although myeloma is a blood cancer, sometimes myeloma cells collect and form a plasmacytoma (a tumour made of plasma cells).

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The cause or causes of myeloma remain relatively unknown but there is increasing research that suggests possible associations between myeloma and a decline in immune function, genetic factors, and the environment.

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The number of Canadians diagnosed with myeloma is steadily increasing year after year. While there is not yet a cure, people with myeloma are living longer and better lives thanks to recent breakthroughs in research and treatment.