This Overlooked Disease Is Killing Twice as Many Black Americans—Here’s Why

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that disproportionately impacts Black Americans. Despite making up only 13 percent of the U.S. population, Black individuals account for over 20 percent of multiple myeloma cases. Yet, this disease often goes undetected or is diagnosed late in Black patients, resulting in higher mortality rates than other racial groups.  The Impact of Multiple Myeloma on Black Americans Multiple myeloma disproportionately affects Black Americans in several critical ways: Higher Incidence: Black Americans are twice as likely to develop multiple myeloma compared to white Americans. Delayed Diagnosis: Many Black patients are diagnosed at later stages of the disease due to delayed access to healthcare and screening, leading to worse outcomes. Higher Mortality Rates: Although Black patients tend to have less aggressive disease forms, they are twice as likely to die from multiple myeloma because of delayed diagnosis and inadequate access to treatments. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for tailored healthcare solutions to close the gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and access to cutting-edge therapies for Black patients. At the forefront of these efforts is Tyrone Brewer, a seasoned healthcare executive with over 30 years of experience. As the President of U.S. Hematology at Johnson...