Module 1 – Overview and epidemiology of myeloma

Summary of module

This module provides an overview of myeloma including a definition, the epidemiology (pattern) and aetiology (cause) of the disease, its presentation and a summary of how it is treated.

Patients often find a diagnosis of myeloma bewildering as they have usually never heard of it before. They may ask questions such as: ‘How many people get myeloma?’; ‘Why have I got it?; ‘What causes it?’; ‘What is going to happen to me?’

Nurses will find it much easier to support patients if they are prepared for these questions and have a good understanding of what myeloma is, who is at greater risk of getting it and why.

Learning outcomes

After successfully completing this module you will be able to:

• Explain what myeloma is
• Discuss the history of myeloma
• Outline the epidemiology and aetiology of myeloma
• Describe how myeloma is treated

Study time

The following number of hours of study time is recommended for successful completion of this module:

Online learning: 5
Independent learning: 5

Total hours: 10