The incidence of multiple myeloma in African Americans is two to three times higher than in other ethnicities and is the leading hematologic malignancy in African Americans. Despite the high incidence of multiple myeloma in African American individuals, a vast majority experience delays in diagnosis and reduced usage of effective therapies, including stem cell transplantation, as well as low participation in clinical trials. Racial disparities, social and financial health disparities, and barriers to earlier access to care can lead to poorer patient outcomes. There are also unique characteristics in the disease manifestation in African Americans with multiple myeloma that are imperative for oncology nurses to understand and recognize to provide optimal care.
Keywords: African American; clinical trials; multiple myeloma; oncology; racial disparities.