What are the main causes of multiple myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects cells in the bone marrow known as plasma cells. It is an incurable blood cancer, and while it can initially be treated to put the disease into remission, it often returns after treatment. There are many possible causes of multiple myeloma, though unfortunately no single definitive cause has yet been identified.

One of the main risk factors for developing multiple myeloma is age; most cases occur over the age of 55 and its incidence increases with age. Another factor associated with development of this cancer is family history; people who have a family member who had developed or was diagnosed with multiple myeloma are more likely to develop it themselves than those who don’t have any family history. Exposure to certain radiation sources such as ultraviolet light or ionizing radiation may also increase risk for development of multiple myeloma, as can certain environmental toxins such as diesel exhaust particles (DEP). Other potential causes could include being exposed to certain chemicals like benzene and pesticides, having infections that damage bone marrow tissue like viral hepatitis C or HIV, and smoking cigarettes regularly over long periods of time.
It's important to note that just because someone has one or more risk factors doesn't mean they will necessarily get multiple myeloma - many people with these risk factors never develop the disease at all! Also keep in mind that further research is necessary before we can definitively say what are all possible root causes in each case - so if you believe you may be at high-risk for this condition based on your current health profile then discuss this topic further with your healthcare provider."