For someone with myeloma, there is actually a known risk of developing a secondary cancer — and this is linked to myeloma treatments rather than a prior cancer history.
Certain myeloma treatments have been associated with a higher risk of secondary blood cancers, specifically:
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) – a fast-growing Show Full Answer
For someone with myeloma, there is actually a known risk of developing a secondary cancer — and this is linked to myeloma treatments rather than a prior cancer history.
Certain myeloma treatments have been associated with a higher risk of secondary blood cancers, specifically:
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) – a fast-growing blood cancer forming in white blood cells
- Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) – a slower-growing condition in bone marrow blood cells that can sometimes progress to AML
Secondary cancers are more likely to develop in people diagnosed with myeloma before age 70. Two specific myeloma treatments linked to this increased risk are:
- Melphalan (Alkeran) – a chemotherapy drug sometimes used with stem cell transplants, carrying roughly a 5% overall risk of secondary cancer with prolonged use
- Lenalidomide (Revlimid) – an immunomodulatory drug that has also been associated with secondary cancer risk
There are steps that can help reduce risk, including maintaining a healthy lifestyle with physical activity and good nutrition, keeping up with regular follow-up appointments, and asking your healthcare team about clinical trial options.
It's always worth having an open conversation with your oncologist about your full medical history so they can tailor monitoring and treatment decisions accordingly.
July 21
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