How long can a person live with late-stage multiple myeloma?

Jun 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My family member has been diagnosed with late-stage myeloma, and I'm very worried. May I ask how long a person can survive with late-stage myeloma?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
The survival period for late-stage myeloma depends on multiple factors and cannot be generalized. Without active treatment, combined with poor mental state and inadequate care, the survival period may be short, approximately three months. If active treatment measures, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, etc., are undertaken along with maintaining a positive mindset and receiving proper nutritional support, the survival period can be significantly extended. Specifically, patients with high-risk types may survive beyond one year with aggressive treatment, while those with low-risk types may achieve a survival period of three to ten years with comprehensive treatment. Additionally, factors such as age and the speed of disease progression also significantly influence the survival period. Therefore, patients with late-stage myeloma should actively cooperate with treatment, maintain a positive mental attitude, and strive to improve their quality of life and prolong survival.