OBSCURE diseases are affecting many families in Antigua and Barbuda, doctors at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre warn. In particular, they are seeing rising cases of multiple myeloma, a cancer of the blood.

Dr Aliena Beiba Omar Sol, a haematologist, said the country records about five cases per 100,000 people each year. Although this number seems small, it is higher than regional and global averages.

For comparison, the Caribbean sees two to four cases per 100,000 people. Meanwhile, global rates are even lower.

Multiple myeloma begins in the bone marrow. There, it damages plasma cells, which normally produce antibodies. Instead, these cells create abnormal proteins that harm the body.

As a result, patients may suffer bone damage, kidney problems, and weakened immunity.

The disease mostly affects older adults. In fact, most patients are over 65 years old. Men face higher risk, and people of African descent are also more vulnerable.

In addition, obesity, hypertension, and kidney disease increase the risk. These conditions may trigger harmful changes in the body over time.

Early symptoms can be hard to detect. For example, patients may feel bone pain, fatigue, or weakness. They may also lose weight or urinate more often.

However, these symptoms often resemble common illnesses. Therefore, many patients delay seeking help.

Doctors stress that symptoms that persist or worsen should not be ignored.

Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre can perform key tests. These include blood tests, urine tests, and imaging such as MRI and CT scans.

However, some specialized tests must be done at private labs.

Treatment options are available locally. These may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted drugs. In more serious cases, advanced treatments may be required.

Dr Omar Sol urged the public to seek care early. She emphasized that early detection improves outcomes.

Overall, doctors warn that awareness is critical. For a small nation, even a few cases each year affect many families.