What is the Epidemiology of Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma accounts for 1% of all malignancies and slightly more than 10% of hematologic malignancies. The annual incidence of multiple myeloma is five per 100,000. The reported increased incidence during the past several decades is probably due to the increased availability of and use of medical facilities for the elderly and improved diagnostic techniques, rather than a true increase in incidence. Incidence in African Americans is twice that found in Caucasians, whereas rates are lower in Asian populations. Multiple myeloma is a disease of the elderly; the median age at diagnosis is 65 to 70 years. Only 2% of patients are younger than 40 years.

Taken from Dr. Kyle's Overview of Multiple Myeloma, presented at the IMF Patient & Family Interactive Seminar in Ft. Lauderdale, FL January, 2004.