showing multiple myeloma
Bone marrow aspirate
Targeted screening could potentially reduce the prevalence of multiple myeloma (MM), according to research published in JCO Clinical Cancer Informatics.
Researchers found that screening for monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) might reduce the risk of MM in individuals with a high lifetime risk of MGUS, which includes men, African Americans, and people with a family history of MM.
The researchers said patients who screen positive for MGUS could seek medical care early and try strategies such as aspirin, metformin, or weight reduction to potentially reduce their risk of progression from MGUS to MM.
However, additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of aspirin, metformin, and weight-loss strategies in preventing MGUS progression.
“Screening for MGUS may have significant benefits by lowering the incidence of multiple myeloma, provided that effective and non-toxic interventions can be identified,” said study author Philipp Altrock, PhD, of Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida.
Dr Altrock and his colleagues performed a series of computational modeling experiments to determine the best screening strategies in different groups of patients. The goal was to determine when screening should begin, how often it should occur, and in which individuals it could be most effective.
The researchers designed their model to predict the progression of MGUS to MM, the changes in MGUS and MM prevalence, and the annual follow-up mortality due to disease.
The team found evidence to suggest that screening strategies could reduce the risk of progression and the prevalence of MM. This effect was more pronounced in individuals who had a higher risk of MGUS.
Modeling suggested the prevalence of MM could be reduced by 19% in patients who begin screening at age 55 and have follow-up screening every 6 years.
A similar reduction in prevalence could also be achieved by starting screening at age 65 and following up every 2 years.
“Regular screening of MGUS candidates should start as early as possible, with biannual follow-up, and focus on high-risk individuals, especially with a family history of multiple myeloma or in groups with a strong indication of MGUS progression,” Dr Altrock said.