What is Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a complex and often misdiagnosed cancer of the bone marrow that affects plasma cells, which comprise the immune system and bone. There is not a strong family tendency for myeloma; a few families do, however, have an increased predisposition to the disease, but it is typically found in people over 50 with a higher incidence rate among African-Americans. There are 16,000 new cases diagnosed annually with 100,000 myeloma patients undergoing treatment for their disease in the U.S.
There is no cure, but myeloma is treatable. With the new research we are supporting, better treatment and new medications are saving lives, and hopefully will lead to a cure.
Myeloma Symptoms
- Anemia and/or low white counts or platelet counts, destruction and invasion of bone surrounding the bone marrow cavity,
- Reduced normal immune function reflected by increased susceptibility to infection.
- Pain of varying intensity, often in the lower back or ribs.
- Sudden severe pain can be a sign of fracture or collapse of a vertebral body.
- General malaise and vague complaints are frequent. Significant weight loss is rare.
- Myeloma is oftentimes diagnosed after having a routine blood test showing increased blood proteins.
For more information on the disease, contact The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
2013 Events:
The 2nd Cancer Caregivers' 1/2 day Seminar, Sat. June 8th,2013, register now!
June 22 - the 6th Annual AzMN/John Wayne Navajo Cancer Conference, Navajo Nation Museum, Window Rock, Az.
Registration begins, February, 2013
Nov 16 - 'Save the Date'
The 9th Annual AzMN/UA Charity Golf Tournament at McCormick Ranch Golf Club
Saturday, November 16th, 2013
Registration and Sponsorships will be available online after May 1st.
Feb 23 - Cancer Caregivers Seminar
Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center
March 23 - 'Save the Date'
7th Annual Living with Myeloma Conference, Chaparral Suites, Scottsdale.
2012 Events:
November 10, 2012- 8th Annual AzMN/UA Golf Classic
McCormick Ranch Golf Course.
Sponsor Info - UA/Palm
Sponsor Info - Local/Pine
Raffle Ticket Information
June 23, 2012 - 5th Annual AzMN/Navajo Nation Cancer Awareness Conference. REGISTER HERE.
March 24, 2012 - 6th Annual Living with Myeloma Conference
TBD - Race for Hope for All Cancers
Click here To View
2011 Race Results, Photos,
and Sponsor 'Thank You's'
