hi.. im sorry about your grandpa being identified with such disease.. i will share with you some of the things i know about myeloma. hope this helps.
Multiple myeloma (also known as myeloma or plasma cell myeloma) is a progressive hematologic (blood) disease. It is a cancer of the plasma cell, an important part of the immune system that produces immunoglobulins (antibodies) to help fight infection and disease. Multiple myeloma is characterized by excessive numbers of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow and overproduction of intact monoclonal immunoglobulin (IgG, IgA, IgD, or IgE) or Bence-Jones protein (free monoclonal ? and ? light chains). Hypercalcemia, anemia, renal damage, increased susceptibility to bacterial infection, and impaired production of normal immunoglobulin are common clinical manifestations of multiple myeloma. It is often also characterized by diffuse osteoporosis, usually in the pelvis, spine, ribs, and skull.
Age is the most significant risk factor for multiple myeloma, as 99% of cases are diagnosed in people over the age of 40, and more than 50% occur in people over the age of 71. Because the peak age for multiple myeloma is among the elderly it is thought that susceptibility may increase with the aging process and the consequent reduction in immune surveillance of evolving cancer, or that myeloma may result from a lifelong accumulation of toxic insults or antigenic challenges.
The higher incidence of myeloma in African Americans and the much less frequent occurrence in Asians suggest genetic factors. While it is uncommon for myeloma to develop in more than one family member, there is a slight increased risk among children and siblings of those with myeloma.
People in agricultural occupations, petroleum workers, workers in leather industries, and cosmetologists all seem to have a higher-than-average chance of developing multiple myeloma. Exposure to herbicides, insecticides, petroleum products, heavy metals, plastics, and various dusts including asbestos also appear to be risk factors for the disease. In addition, individuals exposed to large amounts of radiation, such as survivors of the atomic bomb explosions in Japan, have an increased risk for myeloma, although this accounts for a very small number of cases.
Multiple myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cell, is an incurable but treatable disease. While a myeloma diagnosis can be overwhelming, it is important to remember that there are several promising new therapies that are helping patients live longer, healthier lives.
It is important to remember that in most cases, individuals who develop multiple myeloma have no clear risk factors. Myeloma may be the result of several factors acting together.
Good luck.. A health travel will be helpful for your granpda
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