What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the bone marrow plasma cells. It is synonymous with “myeloma” and “plasma cell myeloma.” Plasma cells make antibodies against infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria. A cancerous or malignant plasma cell is called a myeloma cell. Myeloma is called “multiple” because there are frequently multiple patches or areas in bone marrow where it grows.

Founded in 1990, the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) is the first and largest organization focusing specifically on multiple myeloma. The IMF’s reach extends to more than 525,000 members in 140 countries worldwide. The IMF is dedicated to improving the quality of life of myeloma patients while working toward prevention and a cure through our four founding principles: Research, Education, Support, and Advocacy.

Research

The International Myeloma Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure for those living with multiple myeloma. We have a range of initiatives to make this happen.

Black Swan Research Initiative

We’ve banded together the world’s brightest minds in research, oncology, and health studies to form the IMF’s Black Swan Research Initiative® (BSRI) – a leading-edge project that pits our scientists and leaders on the frontlines against myeloma.

Learn more about BSRI

Asian Myeloma Network

The Asian Myeloma Network (AMN) is comprised of myeloma experts from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand.

Learn more about AMN

International Myeloma Working Group

The International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) emerged from the IMF’s Scientific Advisory Board which was established in 1995. It became clear that there was a need to conduct collaborative research and produce consensus guidelines for the myeloma community.

Learn more about IMWG

Nurse Leadership Board

The NLB is improving the nursing care and self-care of patients with multiple myeloma via consensus publications, symposia, multimedia, and research.

Learn more about NLB

Education

Because “Knowledge Is Power,” the IMF brings educational seminars and workshops to communities near you, and provides a library of publications on multiple myeloma care.

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Download our Free Publications

Learn about IMF’s library of cancer articles, journals, and other publications for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. All are available free of charge online and in printed copy by mail. Many core booklets and key medical articles are translated as well.

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Language of Multiple Myeloma

A reference list of common terms, acronyms and abbreviations that are used in multiple myeloma.

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Watch IMF Videos

From our weekly series “Ask Dr. Durie” to comprehensive news from key cancer medical conferences around the world, IMF Videos are your all-access ticket to critical myeloma research, patient education, and guidance. Check back often for updated content.

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Clinical Trial Finder

Before new drugs or procedures can be approved for use in multiple myeloma, clinical trials must prove that they are safe and more effective than currently available options. Use the Myeloma Matrix 2.0 Smart Search tool to find multiple myeloma clinical trials.

Special thanks to this years’ Resilient Platinum Sponsors: