Multiple Myeloma is a relatively uncommon cancer. In the United States, the lifetime risk of getting multiple myeloma is 1 in 132 (0.76%). About 30,770 new cases were diagnosed in the US in 2017 (16,400 in men and 14,370 in women). It usually occurs around the age of 61 and is more common in men than women.
Multiple Myeloma is a cancer that forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. Plasma cells help fight infections by making antibodies that recognize and attack germs.
Multiple Myeloma causes cancer cells to accumulate in the bone marrow, where they crowd out healthy blood cells.The cancer cells produce abnormal proteins that can cause complications, instead of produce helpful antibodies.
Scientists still do not know exactly what causes most cases of multiple myeloma. However, they have made progress in understanding how certain changes in DNA can make plasma cells become cancerous.
Some genes contain instructions for controlling when cells grow and divide. These genes that promote cell growth are called oncogenes.
Others genes that slow down cell growth or make cells die at the right time are called tumor suppressor genes.
Cancers can be caused by mistakes, or defects, in the DNA called mutations that turn on oncogenes or turn off tumor suppressor genes.
Treatment for Multiple Myeloma isn't always necessary for people who aren't experiencing any signs or symptoms. For people with multiple myeloma who require treatment, a number of treatments are available to help control the disease. However, several promising treatments are under development for Multiple Myeloma.
The Studies are evaluating an investigational medication of Multiple Myeloma. These studies will help determine if the investigational medication is safe and effective at curing or slowing the progression of late stage Multiple Myeloma and when established therapy provided no clinical benefit for patients’ malignancy.
A clinical trial is carefully designed to closely monitor patients’ progress as they go through treatment with an investigational drug, product, device or method of treatment that has not been approved by the FDA. Clinical trials help find new ways to treat, prevent and diagnose diseases. Today, all medications prescribed by a doctor must first be tested in clinical trials. Study participants receive close medical supervision and provide valuable feedback on their experiences.
All clinical trials in the United States are reviewed by the FDA and other governing bodies called Institutional Review Boards, whose job is to make sure participants’ rights are fully protected and that participants are not exposed to any unnecessary risks.
The Studies are evaluating an investigational medication of Multiple Myeloma. These studies will help determine if the investigational medication is safe and effective at curing or slowing the progression of late stage Multiple Myeloma and when established therapy provided no clinical benefit for patients’ malignancy.
A clinical trial is carefully designed to closely monitor patients’ progress as they go through treatment with an investigational drug, product, device or method of treatment that has not been approved by the FDA. Clinical trials help find new ways to treat, prevent and diagnose diseases. Today, all medications prescribed by a doctor must first be tested in clinical trials. Study participants receive close medical supervision and provide valuable feedback on their experiences.
All clinical trials in the United States are reviewed by the FDA and other governing bodies called Institutional Review Boards, whose job is to make sure participants’ rights are fully protected and that participants are not exposed to any unnecessary risks.
Participating in a clinical trial is voluntary. Participants may choose to discontinue participation at any time. Before you enroll in a trial, a doctor or nurse will clearly explain the study procedures and requirements. This is called informed consent. Doctors are not allowed to enroll patients in clinical trials without first ensuring they understand what their involvement in the trial means. Once you enroll, you may end your participation at any time.
When participating in a clinical trial, participants receive study-related medications and medical monitoring at no cost. Most studies reimburse for travel and logistical considerations. It is important to find out the insurance requirements of any study you want to participate in.
