Multiple Myeloma in Olmsted County, Minnesota, 1945-1964

All cases of multiple myeloma diagnosed in bona fide residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, during the years 1945 through 1964 were identified and reviewed. Pathologic material was available for reconfirmation of the diagnosis in 33 of the 35 cases reported. In the remaining two cases the diagnosis was based on roentgenologic findings and protein abnormalities as well as a typical clinical picture. The incidence rate for males was 1.9 times that for females. During the 20 year period covered in this study the average annual incidence rate in the total population has remained about 3/100,000 and when computed for persons 30 years of age and over, it is 6.3/100,000. Incidence figures by place of residence did not reveal a significant difference in the urban-rural rates. Myeloma was listed as a cause of death in 74 per cent of the death certificates. The mean survival time from onset in all cases was about 2 years, with a median survival of approximately 1 year. The age-specific rate increased with age, the highest rates being among male residents 80 years of age and older.