Multiple myeloma (MM) is cancer of plasma cells. These are differentiated B cells that originate in bone marrow. In the body, plasma cells have an important role in producing antibodies to defend against infections.1
When plasma cells grow in an uncontrolled way, which can occur in multiple myeloma, they suppress the growth of other bone marrow cells. This can lead to other conditions, including anemia, bleeding disorders, infections, and bone lesions. In most patients with multiple myeloma, plasma cells produce an abnormal nonfunctional type of antibody called monoclonal protein, which may contribute to disease progression.3
There are several factors that can contribute to the risk for developing multiple myeloma, including being older (the average age at the time of diagnosis is approximately 70).5 Men are more likely to develop multiple myeloma than women, and Black people are twice as likely to develop multiple myeloma as White people.5 If you have a family member with myeloma, your risk may be increased.5 Some evidence has also reported that being overweight or obese may increase risk, as well as having underlying conditions like pernicious anemia and ankylosing spondylitis.6,7
There may also be some occupational risk for the development of multiple myeloma, particularly those that involve exposure to chemicals and other hazardous substances.7
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