Multiple Myeloma Diagnosis

You are not alone. The IMF is here to help you from diagnosis to long-term survival. In this section, you will learn more about the first steps you can take if you have a new multiple myeloma diagnosis. 

How Long Can a Person Live with Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a highly treatable disease. Many patients live long and productive lives after diagnosis. Both survival and quality of life for myeloma patients are improving steadily.

Knowledge Is Power

We encourage you to learn as much as possible about myeloma and to seek out the best care possible. Start by understanding the disease, then proceed to learn about tests, treatments, supportive care, and survivorship.

Knowledge is power. Developing a working knowledge of myeloma and how it is monitored and treated can help you reduce anxiety, gain a sense of control, and make communication with your healthcare team much more effective.

Multiple Myeloma Care Team

Your healthcare team will typically include most of these members:

• a hematologist-oncologist (a specialist that treats cancers of the blood), preferably a myeloma specialist, if possible.
• a primary care physician or family doctor
• a nurse or nurse practitioner
• an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist)
• a pharmacist
• a nephrologist (kidney specialist)
• a dentist or oral surgeon

The best outcome for the patient happens when the members of the healthcare team communicate with each other and with the patient or designated caregiver.

The IMF provides a wide range of programs in the areas of Research, Education, Support, and Advocacy. Learn more in the About Us section of this website.