ROCHESTER, Minn. (WXOW) – Researchers at Mayo Clinic are investigating why multiple myeloma is the most common cancer in the Black community.

The team has identified a precursor to myeloma called M-GUS, which many people of African descent develop at an early age.

Dr. Joselle Cook, Hematologist and Oncologist at Mayo Clinic Rochester, is leading efforts to determine how prevalent M-GUS is in the Black community and explore ways to prevent its progression.

“Treatment could delay or prevent death or progression to multiple myeloma,” said Cook. “And so, this is something we’re actually really excited about in the community, because we’re waiting to see if, you know, if this gets approved… this would be the first therapy that we can give to people to prevent them from going to multiple myeloma.”

Cook is dedicated to equipping the Black community with the knowledge needed to improve medical outcomes.

“Improve health literacy and health awareness in Black communities,” said Cook of her goals. “Another important thing is family history. A lot of people in Black communities don’t know their family history. They don’t know what their parents have had—grandparents—and knowing about your family history is really important for us as doctors, as well, to help kind of guide screening, guide conversations.”

For those interested in learning more or participating in the study, contact information is available on the study’s website.

Have a story idea? Let us know here

Watch more on WXOW wherever you are 

There are plenty of ways to get the latest content from WXOW. You can find us on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV and other smart TV platforms so you can watch us anytime! Enjoy livestreaming newscasts or replays of our latest news along with some of our signature content such as the Jefferson Awards plus the latest weather and local sports. 

Find WXOW on Roku here or by searching for WXOW in the Roku Channel Store.

Find WXOW for Fire TV here or searching for WXOW in the Amazon App Store. 

Add the WXOW app for Apple TV through the Apple App Store. 

Use this link to find out more about all the WXOW apps available.