How early detection and innovative therapies improve outcomes for multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a form of blood cancer that originates from plasma cells – part of the white blood cell produced by the bone marrow responsible for providing the human body with the necessary antibodies.

While it is considered a rare cancer, multiple myeloma poses a significant global health challenge due to its complex nature affecting vital organs and high recurrence rates. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), more than 176,000 new cases of multiple myeloma were reported worldwide in 2022, with about 117,000 deaths.

Need for raising awareness

In the Middle East, incidence rates are rising steadily, reflecting growing awareness and improved diagnostic capabilities. Despite advances in care, many patients are diagnosed at later stages, underscoring the urgent need to raise public awareness and promote early detection.

The risk of developing multiple myeloma increases with age, with most patients diagnosed over the age of 60. Other contributing factors include a family history of the disease, male gender, and exposure to certain environmental influences such as radiation or industrial chemicals.

One of the challenges in diagnosing multiple myeloma is that its early symptoms, such as fatigue, bone pain, or frequent infections, are often mistaken for other conditions. This makes timely diagnosis challenging and often delays treatment.

Raising awareness about the warning signs and encouraging regular health screenings are critical steps in identifying the disease early, when it is more manageable, and treatment outcomes are significantly enhanced.

Innovative therapies

Traditional treatment for multiple myeloma has long relied on chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and autologous stem cell transplantation. However, major advances in recent years have transformed the outlook for patients.

Innovative therapies, including immunotherapy, targeted treatments and combination drug regimens are now playing a vital role in managing the disease. These include the use of bispecific antibodies, monoclonal antibodies, proteasome inhibitors, and CAR T-cell therapy, all of which offer more precise and personalised approaches to care.

According to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), treatment is often tailored to the individual disease characteristics as no two myeloma patients are the same and may involve a mix of therapies over time to control symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. Precision medicine and ongoing research continue to expand the range of options available, offering new hope and longer survival rates for patients worldwide.

“Multiple myeloma continues to place a significant physical and emotional burden on patients and their families,” says Pedro Matos Rosa, Managing Director, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, Gulf. “At Johnson & Johnson, we are committed to advancing cancer care through innovation, collaboration, and a deep focus on patient needs.

Proactive steps

In the UAE and across the region, healthcare authorities are taking proactive steps to improve awareness, early diagnosis, and access to cutting-edge treatments for multiple myeloma. Educational initiatives targeting both the public and healthcare professionals are helping reduce diagnostic delays and empower patients. Collaboration between healthcare providers, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies is crucial in ensuring that new innovative solutions reach patients faster and more efficiently. Globally, partnerships and clinical trials continue to drive innovation and bridge disparities in care, ensuring that more patients benefit from the latest advancements.

“Multiple myeloma is a complex heterogeneous and evolving disease,” adds Emmanouil Manos Nikolousis – Consultant Haematology at American Hospital.

Increasing public understanding of the disease, encouraging timely medical attention, referral to haematology experts, and expanding access to innovative solutions are critical steps in reducing its impact. Multidisciplinary approach across the healthcare sector and sustained investment in research remain essential to driving progress in diagnosis and treatment and improving quality of life for those affected.