You’re not alone
Myeloma touches the lives of tens of thousands of Canadians every day
Myeloma in Canada
11
Approximately 11 people are diagnosed with myeloma in Canada each day.*
4,100
There were an estimated 4,100 new myeloma cases diagnosed in Canada in 2023.*
*2,400 were in males, 1,750 were in females
2024
Advances in research have significantly contributed to increasing life expectancy
An expansive library of resources
Visit our growing library of easy-to-understand and accessible resources and information on myeloma.
Find the answers to your questions on living with myeloma; treatment, managing side effectsProblems that occur due to drugs used for disease treatment. Common side effects of cancer treatment are fatigue, nausea, vomiting, decreased blood cell counts, hair loss, and mouth sores., the financial implications of living with myeloma, and much more.
Everyday life
Treatment
Financial implications
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Myeloma (sometimes called “multiple myeloma”) is the 2nd most common form of blood cancer.
Myeloma is a blood cancerA term for diseases in which malignant cells divide without control. Cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body. associated with the abnormal behaviour and uncontrolled growth of plasma cellsSpecial white blood cells that produce antibodies. The malignant cell in myeloma. Normal plasma cells produce antibodies to fight infection. In myeloma, malignant plasma cells produce large amounts of abnormal antibodies that lack the capability to fight infection. The abnormal antibodies are the monoclonal protein, or M protein. Plasma cells also produce other chemicals that can cause organ and tissue damage (i.e. anemia, kidney damage and nerve damage). (a type of white blood cellThe basic unit of any living organism.). PlasmaThe liquid part of the blood in which red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are suspended. cells are made in the bone and are an important component of the body’s immune systemThe complex group of organs and cells that produces antibodies to defend the body against foreign substances such as bacteria, viruses, toxins, and cancers. because they produce antibodies. However, in myeloma, too many plasma cells are produced and they “crowd out” other types of cells like red blood cellsMinute structures produced in the bone marrow; they include red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. and platelets that our body needs to be healthy.
While myeloma is not yet curable, it is treatable. Tremendous advances in research are paving the way to finding a cure.
Who we are
Myeloma Canada is the only national charitable organization created by and for Canadians impacted by multiple myeloma. We are driven to improve the lives of those affected by myeloma by empowering our community through awareness, education, advocacy programs, and supporting clinicalInvolving direct observation of a patient. research to find a cure. Since it was founded in 2005, Myeloma Canada has been making myeloma matter.