A stark warning has been issued by a leading UK cancer charity, revealing that common back pain symptoms are being dangerously overlooked as signs of a potentially deadly disease.
Myeloma UK reports a deeply concerning trend: persistent backache, frequently attributed to everyday causes like menopause, gardening injuries, or simple wear and tear, is masking a sharp rise in spinal cancer cases. This critical delay in diagnosis is costing precious time for patients.
The Alarming Rise of a Silent Killer
Myeloma is a cancer that forms in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. As these cancerous cells multiply, they attack the bones, with the spine being a prime target. This causes severe, often debilitating pain that is notoriously mistaken for more benign conditions.
Shockingly, the charity's research indicates that a staggering 80% of myeloma patients are only diagnosed after an emergency hospital visit. This late detection severely limits treatment options and drastically reduces survival rates.
Red Flags: The Symptoms You Must Not Ignore
Experts are urging the public and healthcare professionals to look beyond the obvious. The key is a cluster of symptoms, rather than back pain alone. Critical red flags include:
- Persistent, severe pain that doesn't improve with rest or normal painkillers.
- Unexplained fatigue that is overwhelming and constant.
- Unexpected weight loss without a change in diet or exercise.
- Frequent infections or a noticeably reduced immune response.
- Bone fractures that occur from minor bumps or for no apparent reason.
Shevaun Harlton, a patient who initially blamed her agony on gardening, shared her experience: "The pain was excruciating; it felt like my ribs were breaking. I was told it was muscular for months. By the time I was diagnosed, my spine was crumbling."
A Call for Faster Action and Awareness
Myeloma UK is now campaigning for greater awareness among both GPs and the public. They stress that while back pain is incredibly common, a combination of symptoms and pain that feels "different" must be investigated promptly.
Dr. Sophie Castell, the charity's chief executive, stated: "We cannot afford to be complacent. Understanding these symptoms could be the difference between an early diagnosis and a crisis. If your back pain is persistent and comes with other unexplained symptoms, please seek further advice and mention myeloma."
This urgent alert serves as a vital reminder that not all pain is simple, and early investigation could save lives.
