Multiple Myeloma

Did you know that myeloma is the most common blood cancer in people of African descent? But doctors do not typically check people for myeloma during a regular visit because currently there are no national screening recommendations for myeloma.

That’s why it’s important to learn the early symptoms of myeloma and let your doctor know that you—or a friend or family member—are at added risk for the disease.

Because even though myeloma affects African Americans at greater rates, with early diagnosis and treatment, African Americans can have better overall survival in living with the disease.

MYELOMA TOOLKIT

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Myeloma Made Simple

If you’re new to myeloma – or looking for a quick refresher course – IMF Chief Medical Officer Dr. Joseph Mikhael runs through what you need to know in this short video.

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Understanding the Language of Myeloma

Myeloma is a complicated disease, but the language that describes it doesn’t have to be. Here is a list of words and phrases commonly used in discussions about myeloma.

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Early Signs of Myeloma

This Tip Card covers early diagnosis and warning signs of multiple myeloma.

Join a Group

Find a Support Group

Support groups bring together myeloma patients, caregivers, family members and friends. Patients involved in a support group experience more positive outcomes due to their understanding of treatment options and ability to have key conversations with their health-care team.

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Have You Been Diagnosed with Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a highly treatable disease. Many patients live long and productive lives after diagnosis.

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Myeloma Treatment Discussion Tool

This tool was developed in collaboration with myeloma patients and caregivers, leaders of myeloma support groups, and the IMF Nurse Leadership Board. Discuss this tool with your treatment team and healthcare providers.

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M-Power Yourself

To make good decisions about your care with your health-care team, learn as much as you can about myeloma and its treatments.

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Caregiver Resources

A comprehensive list of caregiver support and other helpful resources especially for families and caregivers.

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Drug Reimbursement Information and Assistance

List of pharma, government and other resources regarding drug reimbursement information and assistance

Abstracts on racial disparities in myeloma care

IMF Chief Medical Officer Dr. Joseph Mikhael (TGen, City of Hope — Phoenix) talks about abstracts on racial disparities in myeloma care as reported from this year’s American Society of Hematology (ASH) annual conference held in Atlanta, GA.

Patient advocate Yelak Biru shares his story

Diagnosed at the young age of 25 with stage III multiple myeloma, Yelak Biru is a patient turned myeloma research advocate. Working with a team of medical practitioners and educating himself through support group leadership, information resources, advocacy sites, social media, and the IMF, Yelak has successfully integrated myeloma to his life for over two decades.