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January 14, 2024
In a significant breakthrough, researchers have uncovered a link between obesity and an increased likelihood of having a benign blood condition known as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), a precursor to the blood cancer multiple myeloma. The findings also suggest that lifestyle factors such as weight, exercise habits, and smoking may impact one’s susceptibility to developing multiple myeloma, according to a study published in the journal Blood Advances.
MGUS is characterized by the presence of an abnormal protein produced by plasma cells and is recognized as a precursor to multiple myeloma. While individuals with MGUS typically exhibit no immediate symptoms and are not immediately ill, the condition serves as a warning sign, urging close monitoring for potential progression to more critical conditions like multiple myeloma.
David Lee, an internal medicine resident at Massachusetts General Hospital, highlighted the significance of investigating risk factors for MGUS to understand the increased risk of developing the condition and its subsequent progression to multiple myeloma. Lee emphasized that despite advancements in therapeutics for multiple myeloma, it remains an incurable disease often diagnosed at an advanced stage, after patients have experienced significant damage to vital organs.
The research involved 2,628 individuals at elevated risk of developing multiple myeloma, based on self-identified race and family history of hematologic malignancies. Participants were screened for MGUS, and the findings revealed notable connections between lifestyle factors and the blood condition.
After adjusting for age, sex, race, education, and income, the study found that being obese was associated with a 73 percent higher likelihood of having MGUS compared to individuals with normal weights. On the other hand, highly active individuals, defined as those engaging in the equivalent of running or jogging 45-60 minutes per day or more, were found to be less likely to have MGUS, even after accounting for BMI class.
The study also highlighted that individuals reporting heavy smoking and experiencing short sleep were more likely to have detectable levels of MGUS. However, the researchers caution that while strong correlations were found between MGUS, obesity, and lifestyle factors, there is not enough evidence to establish causation.
Dr. Lee explained that these results provide valuable insights into understanding the influence of modifiable risk factors, such as weight, exercise, and smoking, on cancer risk. The findings point towards avenues for further research to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between lifestyle choices, obesity, and the development of blood conditions that may progress to serious cancers like multiple myeloma.
