Are You Newly Diagnosed?

If you've recently been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, you're not alone. This condition affects thousands of people every year. 

At the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF), we're here to help you from diagnosis to long-term survival. Learn more about the first steps you can take if you have newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.

How Is Multiple Myeloma Diagnosed?

Multiple myeloma can be diagnosed by lab tests, biopsies, or imaging tests. Typically, the first step in diagnosis is identifying the presence of monoclonal protein in the blood.

Signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma can vary. Some patients have a low red blood cell count, while others report bone pain or feeling extreme fatigue. If you have any symptoms or have been referred by your medical practitioner, it's important to get a diagnosis as early as possible.

How Treatable Is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a highly treatable disease. Many patients live long and productive lives after diagnosis. Both survival and quality of life for myeloma patients are improving steadily.

Treatment Side Effects

Any treatment will have some side effects, whether mild or more pronounced. Some treatments could cause:

• Blood clots, namely deep vein or pulmonary thrombosis
• Neuropathy, from either the disease itself or its treatments
• A higher risk of infections like pneumonia and shingles
• Bone marrow suppression

Knowledge Is Power

We encourage you to find out as much as you can about myeloma and to seek out the best care possible. Start by understanding the disease, then proceed to learn about tests, treatments, supportive care, and survivorship.

Knowledge is power. Developing a working knowledge of myeloma and how it is monitored and treated can help you reduce anxiety, gain a sense of control, and make communication with your healthcare team much more effective.

Multiple Myeloma Care Team

Your healthcare team will typically include most of these members:

• A hematologist-oncologist (a specialist that treats cancers of the blood), preferably a myeloma specialist, if possible.
• A primary care physician or family doctor
• A nurse or nurse practitioner
• An orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist)
• A pharmacist
• A nephrologist (kidney specialist)
• A dentist or oral surgeon

The best outcome for the patient happens when the members of the healthcare team communicate with each other and with the patient or designated caregiver.

What's the Next Step?

The IMF provides a wide range of programs in the areas of Research, Education, Support, and Advocacy. Learn more in the About Us section of this website. 

With advancements in medicine, many people with a multiple myeloma diagnosis continue to live active, fulfilling lives. Through our various channels, you can stay informed and connected while on this journey.