Long-Term Migraines Masked Blood Cancer diagnosis for Birmingham Man, Highlighting Rising Multiple Myeloma Cases
A 42-year-old man from Birmingham, UK, discovered his decades-long history of migraines was masking a serious underlying condition: multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. Simon Williamson had suffered severe migraines since his teenage years, but medical professionals initially considered the symptoms manageable and refrained from prescribing stronger pain relief.
the situation dramatically changed in March 2018 when Williamson experienced symptoms resembling a stroke, including slurred speech and paralysis. Initial investigations suspected sarcoidosis, a chronic inflammatory disease. Though, complete testing revealed a diagnosis of multiple myeloma. At the time of diagnosis,Williamson already had bone lesions in his ribs,pelvis,and spine,as well as a fragile area in his skull,necessitating immediate chemotherapy.
Williamson underwent chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant,but the cancer recurred in the summer of 2023. He is currently undergoing further treatment and is scheduled for a second stem cell transplant in October. “It was a day when I went to the emergency room with a migraine headache,” williamson stated, expressing gratitude for the additional time he has with his family.
He is now participating in the ‘Knowledge IS Power’ campaign during hematological Cancer Awareness month, aiming to raise awareness of blood cancers and empower patients, particularly within Black communities, to advocate for their health.
Increasing Incidence of Multiple Myeloma in Korea
The story underscores a growing concern: the increasing incidence of multiple myeloma globally, including in South Korea. Multiple myeloma is characterized by the abnormal multiplication of cells within the bone marrow, leading to bone damage, anemia, impaired kidney function, and increased susceptibility to infection. Once considered a rare cancer, its prevalence is rising due to factors like an aging population, advancements in diagnostic technology, and increased health screening.
According to the National Cancer Registration Statistics, 1,878 new cases of multiple myeloma were diagnosed in Korea in 2022, representing approximately 1% of all cancer diagnoses. The disease is more common in men (1,034 cases) than women (844 cases). The highest incidence was observed in the 70-79 age group (33%), followed by the 60-69 age group (30%) and the 80+ age group (18%).
Fortunately, survival rates for multiple myeloma have significantly improved.The five-year relative survival rate for patients diagnosed between 2018 and 2022 was 51% (52% for men, 50% for women), a marked enhancement compared to rates recorded a decade ago.A study conducted by Seoul St. mary’s Hospital, tracking patients from 2010-2021, reported a median survival of 80.5 months (approximately 6.7 years), exceeding previous average survival periods.
Thes improvements are attributed to the growth of new drugs and treatment strategies, including proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulators, and emerging immunotherapies like monoclonal antibodies and CAR-T cell therapy. Despite these advances, relapse and treatment resistance remain notable challenges in managing this complex disease.
