The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Discipline of Haematology in the School of Medicine co-hosted the Cancer Association of South Africa’s (CANSA) commemoration of International Myeloma Action Day, which began with an awareness walk from CANSA’s headquarters to the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine.
CANSA said the event aimed to raise awareness, promote education and strengthen support for people affected by multiple myeloma, the world’s third most common blood cancer.
CANSA Monitoring and Evaluation Officer Ms Aadhya Maniram explained that multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow that disrupts the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells and antibodies. Because it can affect multiple bones, it is known as ‘multiple’ myeloma.
“According to recent global cancer registry data, approximately 188 000 new cases of multiple myeloma are diagnosed worldwide each year, and hundreds of thousands of people continue to live with the disease (Journal of the National Cancer Institute [JNCI], 2024). This day promotes earlier diagnosis, equitable access to treatment, and continued research efforts,” CANSA said.
Participants, dressed in burgundy – the recognised colour for myeloma awareness – included patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, representatives from UKZN, the National Health Laboratory Service, Victoria Mxenge Hospital and CANSA. Carrying awareness placards, they highlighted the importance of early diagnosis, support for patients and families, and recognising common symptoms of multiple myeloma.
Multiple myeloma survivor Mr Con Malherbe, who has lived with the disease for six years, shared his experience and encouraged early diagnosis. He said maintaining an active lifestyle had enabled him to continue pursuing personal goals, including successfully completing the Absa Cape Epic to raise funds for CANSA.
Head of the KwaZulu-Natal Haematology Academic Complex and UKZN clinician-researcher Dr Nadine Rapiti emphasised the importance of raising awareness of multiple myeloma.
“As clinicians, our greatest hope is that patients receive an early diagnosis so they can live longer and healthier lives,” she said.
The event provided the public with an opportunity to learn more about multiple myeloma, hear directly from patients and healthcare professionals, and promote earlier diagnosis and improved support for those living with the disease. Access the event via the Facebook album.
Words and photographs: Lunga Memela
