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A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Kentucky
October 5
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Mine did, but most do not.

October 5
MyMyelomaTeam

Yes, MGUS can progress to smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), though it doesn't always happen. Think of them as steps on a ladder — MGUS is the first rung, SMM is the middle, and active myeloma is the top.

Here's a quick breakdown of the progression risk:

- People with MGUS have about a 1% chance per year of progressing to Show Full Answer

Yes, MGUS can progress to smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), though it doesn't always happen. Think of them as steps on a ladder — MGUS is the first rung, SMM is the middle, and active myeloma is the top.

Here's a quick breakdown of the progression risk:

- People with MGUS have about a 1% chance per year of progressing to myeloma
- If MGUS does progress, it typically moves to SMM first before becoming active myeloma
- Not everyone with MGUS will develop SMM or myeloma For those who do reach SMM, the progression risk to active myeloma is higher but decreases over time:

- First 5 years: ~10% chance per year of developing active myeloma
- Years 5–10: drops to about 3% per year
- After 10 years: around 1% per year

Regular monitoring with blood and urine tests is the key tool doctors use to keep an eye on any changes. Staying on top of follow-up appointments is really important.

October 5

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