Colombia sees rise in multiple myeloma cases, new treatments improve outlook

Colombia is among the Latin American countries with the highest number of multiple myeloma cases, a blood cancer that accounts for about 10 % of hematologic malignancies and mainly affects people over 60. An analysis by The Economist Impact predicts a 50 % increase in cases by 2040. A large share of patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, which can worsen prognosis and limit therapeutic options.

Medical advances are changing the outlook. Sergio Beltrán, director of Medical Affairs for Johnson & Johnson Latin America North, said, “Two decades ago, the prospects for patients were considerably more limited than they are today. Today they have alternatives that not only prolong life but also improve long‑term disease control.” Targeted therapies and strategies that achieve deep responses, including minimal residual disease negativity, are offering more durable control and raising hopes of functional cures for some patients. Experts stress the need to improve early detection and continue innovating to further boost survival and quality of life for patients and their families.