Multiple myeloma is a relatively uncommon cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 20,580 new cases of multiple myeloma (11,680 in men and 8,900 in women) will be diagnosed during 2009. In the United States, the lifetime risk of getting multiple myeloma is 1 in 161 (0.62%).

About 10,580 Americans (5,640 men and 4,940 women) are expected to die of multiple myeloma in 2008.

The 5-year relative survival rate for multiple myeloma is around 35%. Survival is higher in younger people and lower in the elderly. Of course, 5-year survival rates are based on patients diagnosed and initially treated more than 5 years ago. The recent improvements in treatment may result in a more favorable outlook for recently diagnosed patients.

The 5-year survival rate refers to the percentage of patients who live at least 5 years after their cancer is diagnosed. Five-year survival rates are used to produce a standard way of discussing prognosis. Of course, many people live much longer than 5 years. Five-year relative survival rates exclude patients dying of other diseases. This means that anyone who died of another cause, such as heart disease, is not counted.

Last Medical Review: 02/13/2009
Last Revised: 05/12/2009