Posted on June 04th, 2025
Every year, around 36K individuals get diagnosed with multiple myeloma in the U.S. Myeloma is a rare, aggressive cancer that targets the bone marrow's plasma cells. The exact causes remain unknown, but scientists associate multiple myeloma with factors such as genetics, pre-existing health conditions, and exposure to toxins like PFAS.
This is especially concerning for military personnel, veterans, and their families. It may also affect residents near contaminated military sites. Over 700 Army bases are known to have PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination, putting those living there at increased risk of developing multiple myeloma.
Emerging studies link PFAS exposure to multiple myeloma
PFAS earned the nickname 'forever chemicals' because these do not break down. Instead, these tend to accumulate. When absorbed into the human body, they can disrupt cellular function, which can further lead to cancers like blood cancers. Some of the notable studies that suggest a connection between PFAS and multiple myeloma include:
- A case-cohort study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives in 2023 discovered a link between exposure to certain PFAS chemicals and multiple myeloma, affecting both men and women.
- A meta-analysis by a group of international researchers reports a 'statistically significant connection' between PFAS exposure and certain types of cancer, including multiple myeloma.
While researchers recommend conducting more investigations to better understand the complexities of the relationship between PFAS exposure and multiple myeloma, these studies add weight to concerns over PFAS-related health risks.
Health issues and symptoms tied to multiple myeloma
Multiple myeloma occurs when plasma cells, the white blood cells that make antibodies, start to grow uncontrollably and produce abnormal antibodies called M proteins. It can result in several health complications, such as:
- Anemia
- Amyloidosis
- Hyper calcemia
- Other disorders that affect the bones and kidneys
- Other health issues that affect the body's ability to fight infection
Aside from bone pain, symptoms associated with multiple myeloma include:
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Brain fog or feeling confused
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unexplained fever
- Weakness in the arms or legs
Get legal help for your PFAS-linked multiple myeloma
Living with multiple myeloma can be challenging, and if you're looking for legal help, we're here for you. We offered legal support and representation for victims of toxic exposure for over 3 decades. If you believe that exposure to PFAS may have caused your multiple myeloma, you can reach out to our team for a free case evaluation.
