Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is a relatively rare cancer affecting bone marrow and plasma cells in the blood. According to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, approximately 20,000 people a year develop this condition in the United States. But the somewhat uncommon nature of the disease hasn’t limited what information can be found about the subject online. The resources in this guide explore the causes and treatment options for multiple myeloma, and methods for connecting to other multiple myeloma patients.
Expand All Guide SectionsWhat Is Multiple Myeloma?
Use the Web sites recommended in this section to learn how multiple myeloma develops in the body, and what symptoms a person with multiple myeloma may exhibit.
Insights for Multiple Myeloma
- “Neoplasm” is a term that may appear frequently in your multiple myeloma research. According to the National Cancer Institute, this is another word for “tumor.”
- See the findingDulcinea Cancer Web Guide for additional resources that can help you learn more about cancer.
Top Sites for Multiple Myeloma
For causes of multiple myeloma …
WebMD
explains how plasma cells form in the blood, and what having too many plasma cells (a problem related to multiple myeloma) can do to the body.
For symptoms of multiple myeloma …
Cedars-Sinai
provides a brief overview of what multiple myeloma is, and lists some of the symptoms of this condition.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
describes many of the physical conditions a person with multiple myeloma may exhibit.
For diagnosis information …
Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation
has information for the newly diagnosed patient with multiple myeloma.
Treating Multiple Myeloma
Currently, multiple myeloma is incurable. However, physicians are continually working on new treatments, which are helping patients live much longer lives. The resources below explain the various treatments available for multiple myeloma patients, and offer assistance with finding a multiple myeloma clinical trial.
Insights for Multiple Myeloma Treatment
- See the findingDulcinea Clinical Trials Web Guide for more help in learning about and finding a clinical trial to fit your needs.
Top Sites for Multiple Myeloma Treatment
Find an oncologist …
Cancer.Net
has a searchable database to help you search for an oncologist in your area.
Novartis Oncology
provides five questions a cancer patient should ask their oncologist about treatment, and explains why these questions are important for patients to know.
For treatment information …
The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
contains several informative pages about multiple myeloma staging, pain management and various treatment strategies.
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
provides particularly useful information on multiple myeloma disease complications, side effects of treatment and response to treatment.
Mayo Clinic
features a short, yet helpful page about lifestyle adjustments a person with multiple myeloma should consider when receiving treatment for multiple myeloma.
For treatment centers …
Myeloma Institute for Research and Therapy
at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is one of the leading research and myeloma treatment centers in the world. Learn how to become a patient at this facility, or follow news developments in myeloma treatment and happenings at the Institute.
For clinical trials …
ClinicalTrials.gov
is provided by the U.S. National Institutes of Health. Check this listing of multiple myeloma trials to see if any studies are actively recruiting for participants, or learn about others already underway.
The Stanford Cancer Center
contains a listing of adult and pediatric cancer research trials available. Click the “multiple myeloma” link in the age group you’re looking for.
After treatment …
The American Cancer Society
features a helpful discussion of what happens once you’ve completed treatment for multiple myeloma.
Finding Multiple Myeloma Support
Finding support from others who have experience with multiple myeloma and staying up-to-date on current news can be especially useful for patients, caregivers or family members. The resources recommended in this section link to blogs, message boards and news updates about multiple myeloma.
Insights for Multiple Myeloma Support
- To find in-person meetings with multiple myeloma patients in your area, type your city name and “multiple myeloma support group” into your favorite search engine.
- Health-related message boards or other forums often have places for caregivers, friends and family members to seek emotional support when a loved one is ill.
- Remember that anyone generally can participate on a message board. Especially where your health is concerned, take any information you read with a grain of salt.
Top Sites for Multiple Myeloma Support
For message boards …
CancerCompass
offers free message boards about multiple myeloma. Anyone can read these messages, but free registration is required before you may post messages of your own.
Daily Strength
has a message board available for multiple myeloma sufferers. Registration is necessary to participate in this site.
For survivor stories and blogs …
The Multiple Myeloma Survivors’ Stories Web Site
contains several stories about survivors’ experiences with multiple myeloma, as well as memorials for those who have passed away.
Beth’s Multiple Myeloma Blog
shares a variety of thoughts from a myeloma patient. Check the list of “Myeloma Blogs” at the right of the page to read more personal stories and thoughts on multiple myeloma.
For news updates …
The Huntsman Cancer Institute
provides news updates regarding multiple myeloma treatments and other cancer-related information.
International Myeloma Foundation
offers a “Myeloma Today” newsletter. Available in PDF format, this newsletter includes several discussions about progress in multiple myeloma treatments and research.
The Myeloma Beacon
is a good source of developing news on myeloma. Although the editorial staff is relatively young, the articles include quotes from experts and provide links to authoritative resources.
© 2012 Dulcinea Media, Inc.
