Myeloma Australia

A recent report titled “The Economic Burden of Myeloma in Australia” highlights the scale of an overlooked cancer. Multiple myeloma is an incurable blood cancer affecting 22,000 Australians and costing the economy $7.16 billion each year. While it represents just 1% of all cancers, it carries one of the highest costs per patient, exceeding $300,000.

Australia now has the highest incidence globally, with more than 50 people diagnosed every week, alongside an estimated 350,000 Australians living with precursor conditions (MGUS or smouldering myeloma). Despite advances in treatment, outcomes remain poor: 27% of people die within 18 months of diagnosis, and only 61% survive five years, compared with 71% across all cancers. Costs are driven by late diagnosis and repeated relapse, with much of the burden falling on patients, carers and families, and total costs are projected to reach $9–10 billion by 2030.

In this context, Myeloma Australia is the nation’s only organisation solely dedicated to supporting people living with myeloma and improving outcomes across the disease pathway. Its mission is to enhance quality of life and survival through specialist nursing care, education, advocacy and research investment, with a vision of a future where myeloma is better understood, detected earlier and ultimately cured. Through a national network of myeloma specialist nurses, free evidence-based information and targeted programs that address gaps in care, Myeloma Australia plays a critical role in reducing the burden of disease and ensuring patients and families are supported at every stage of their journey.

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