Having a risk factor for multiple myeloma does not mean that someone will get the disease. And, people who have no risk factors can still get multiple myeloma.

Factors that may increase the risk of getting multiple myeloma are:

Age. Multiple Myeloma occurs more frequently in individuals who are in their 60s or older. However, younger individuals can also get multiple myeloma.

Gender. Males are more likely than females to develop multiple myeloma.

Race. African Americans are more likely to get multiple myeloma than other races. The highest incidence is among African American males.

History of Other Plasma Cell Disorders. Individuals with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) or a plasmacytoma are more likely to develop multiple myeloma.