Multiple Myeloma~ What You Need To Know

Multiple myeloma- is the second most common blood cancer, but it is not a common cancer. It is also known as myeloma, plasma cell myeloma, or as Kahler's disease (after Otto Kahler). It is a cancer that begins in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell. These cells are part of your immune system which helps protect the body from germs and other harmful substances. No one knows the exact causes of multiple myeloma, but it is more common in older people and African-Americans. The symptoms can vary greatly from patient to patient. Early symptoms may include: Bleeding problems, bone pain often in the back or rib, broken bones, increased susceptibility to infection, weakness or fatigue or weight loss. Myeloma is hard to cure; the treatment may help control symptoms and complications. Options include chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation and radiation. Joining me is the LLS NYC Board Member: Dr David H. Vesole (Co-Chief of the Myeloma Division and Director of Myeloma Research at John Theurer Cancer Center, Hackensack University Medical Center, Nicole Clouden, a Multiple Myeloma Survivor who was part of the Brooklyn Minority Based Community Clinical Oncology Study Program at SUNY Downstate Hospital and Meg Harrison- Patient Services Manager at the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, NYC Chapter. Call: 347-945-5853