Multiple myeloma is a rare blood cancer that develops in the plasma cells found in an individual's bone marrow. Plasma cells are one of the three types of white blood cells in the body. White blood cells help fight infections and disease. Plasma cells produce antibodies critical for maintaining the immune system. Multiple myeloma develops when healthy plasma cells turn into malignant myeloma cells. Although the process is complex, genetic abnormalities can turn plasma cells into myeloma cells.

Although multiple myeloma is incurable, it is a treatable disease and the survival rates for myeloma have increased over the last 10 years with the introduction of new treatments. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant. Currently, there are many promising new treatments in clinical trials that are bringing researchers closer to a cure and improving survival rates even more. The outlook for myeloma patients is improving all the time.

Researchers do not know what causes multiple myeloma, but exposure to chemicals, such as pesticides, may play a role.

More Info: www.themmrf.org