FAQ's about Multiple Myeloma

At the Bob Potokar Love Your Face foundation, we have learned a lot about Multiple Myeloma cancer, understanding what it is, common symptoms, the statistics around how many people will be diagnosed with the disease and what the odds are for survival. We know that living with the disease is possible and we know that some succumb to the devastating effects it has on a body. To be clear, we are not the experts. 

Although we are not medical experts, this page aims to inform you, so together, we can spread awareness and educate others. 

If you want to research Multiple Myeloma further, we suggest starting with the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. 

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells. Malignant plasma cells accumulate in bone marrow (the soft and spongy tissue at the center of your bones ) and will deplete the normal plasma cells that help fight off infection. These malignant plasma cells then create an abnormal antibody called M protein, which shows no benefit to the body and may cause tumors, kidney damage, bone destruction and damaged immune function. The marker of multiple myeloma is a high level of M protein in the blood.

Multiple myeloma is a relatively uncommon cancer. In the United States, the lifetime risk of getting multiple myeloma is 1 in 132 (0.76%). The American Cancer Society's estimates for multiple myeloma in the United States for 2023 are: About 35,730 new cases will be diagnosed (19,860 in men and 15,870 in women).

• Anemia:  Lower-than-normal levels of red blood cells can lead to anemia, causing dizziness and general weakness
• Bone Pain and Fractures:  Bone pain from multiple myeloma can happen anywhere in the body, but most often in the back, hips and head
• Excessive Bleeding:  Due to lower levels of platelets, which help with clotting, even minor injuries or cuts can lead to a lot of bleeding
• High Levels of Calcium:  A buildup of calcium in the blood can lead to confusion, weakness, drowsiness, and lack of appetite. 
• Kidney Problems:  Proteins released by myeloma cancer cells can damage the kidneys; they're found through blood or urine tests
• Numbness:  Attacks on the bones in your spine can harm your spinal nerves, leading to numbness and muscle weakness