Myeloma Statistics  

Multiple myeloma represents approximately 10% of hematologic malignancies and 1% of all cancers; it is responsible for 2% of all cancer deaths. Each year, multiple myeloma affects about 5 out of 100 000 individuals aged 50 or less; and 20 out of 100 000 individuals aged 80 and over. In the United States alone, nearly 45 000 people are living with myeloma, with an estimate of 20 000 new cases per year. According to the American Cancer Institute (ACI), it is estimated that 11,680 men and 8,900 women (20,580 men and women) were diagnosed with myeloma in 2009; 10,580 people died of the disease.   

The incidence of multiple myeloma, however, varies with age. From 2002-2006, the median age at diagnosis for myeloma was 70 years of age. The percentages and ages of people diagnosed were approximately:

• 0.0% under age 20;  
• 0.5% between 20 and 34;  
• 3.3% between 35 and 44;  
• 11.9% between 45 and 54;  
• 20.7% between 55 and 64;  
• 26.5% between 65 and 74;  
• 27.6% between 75 and 84;  
• 9.5% 85+ years of age.

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