I went to the hospital because of back pain and got a shock... "It's blood cancer?"

My dad had blood cancer.

We have back pain as well.

You had severe symptoms of stomatitis.

There was an abnormality in the blood test.

You haven't had the test done,ㅠ

If you are feeling unwell, be sure to visit the hospital.

A 65-year-old woman named Ms. A, who had a history of back problems, experienced severe back pain and leg weakness after descending the stairs one day. She visited a hospital and was diagnosed with a spinal fracture causing nerve compression. During tests to determine the cause of the fracture, it was also found that she had anemia of unknown origin. Her primary doctor suspected blood cancer and transferred her to a higher-level general hospital. According to data published by the Central Cancer Registry in 2023, multiple myeloma accounted for 1,915 cases in South Korea in 2021, representing 0.7% of all new cancer cases. The hallmark symptom of multiple myeloma is weakened and destroyed bones. In fact, about 70% of patients diagnosed initially report back pain and bone pain in the hip area.

Multiple myeloma produces abnormal proteins called M-proteins instead of normal antibodies, destroying the normal immune system and causing various symptoms. Due to hypercalcemia, symptoms such as thirst, nausea, consciousness disturbances, and shortness of breath caused by anemia, dizziness, general weakness, and weakened bones leading to fractures or pain in the back and ribs, as well as swelling caused by decreased kidney function, may occur.

Multiple myeloma is problematic in itself, but it often accompanies chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, osteoporosis, and degenerative arthritis, leading to many cases where the treatment timing is missed.

Professor Park said, "Since most cases occur after middle age, they often involve chronic diseases. Therefore, even if signs of multiple myeloma appear, they are often mistaken for symptoms of existing chronic illnesses, leading to delayed diagnosis." He added, "Elderly individuals experiencing unexplained bone pain, anemia, or kidney dysfunction should consider undergoing tests for multiple myeloma."

He emphasized, "Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer that is increasing with aging, and treatment should aim to improve prognosis and quality of life through early diagnosis. It is important to discuss with the primary physician and decide on a reasonable treatment plan."

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