Empowering Communities Through Education and Access

Myeloma Link, a national initiative of Blood Cancer United (formerly known as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society), aims to empower Black communities in 15 metropolitan areas by offering free education, enhancing access to quality myeloma care, and connecting patients to the latest treatments and clinical trials. Blood Cancer United is the global leader and innovator in creating a world without blood cancer. Blood Cancer United’s mission: Cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life of all patients and their families. BCU is focused on accelerating research, providing free support and services, and advocating for policies to ensure access to quality, affordable care.

Why It Matters

Multiple myeloma is the most common blood cancer among Black Americans, who face at least twice the risk of developing the disease compared to other racial groups. They are also more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age.

While overall survival rates have improved in recent years, progress has been slower for Black individuals, who:

• Receive advanced treatments such as autologous stem cell transplants and novel drug combinations at lower rates.
• Often experience delays in starting therapy.
• Remain underrepresented in clinical trials, perpetuating disparities in outcomes.

For lower-income Black Americans, barriers to care can be even more pronounced, leading to suboptimal treatment, higher hospitalization costs, and poorer quality of life.

Approach

Myeloma Link meets people where they are, partnering with trusted national and community-based institutions like fraternities, civic organizations, barbershops, churches, senior centers, and community health centers to break down barriers to care. The program leverages a network of BCU staff, trained community outreach volunteers, and healthcare professionals to:

• Raise awareness about myeloma symptoms, treatment options, and disparities in care.
• Connect patients and caregivers to trusted, free information and support services.
• Encourage participation in advanced treatment options, including clinical trials.
• Equip healthcare providers in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) with up-to-date myeloma education resources.

Impact

Since its launch in 2017, Myeloma Link has:

• Reached more than 350,000 people, including patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and community leaders.
• Hosted over 500 education events for patients, providers, and the general public.
• In FY 25 alone, BCU engaged 20,000+ Black community members through tailored patient and community education programs, national webinars, health fairs, provider outreach, and other national and local events.

The insights gained from implementing Myeloma Link across these cities have enabled BCU to position the program as a nationwide outreach to Black communities.

While Myeloma Link remains active in its original markets, its outreach strategies are now being applied more broadly to guide BCU’s efforts in expanding access to information and support for Black individuals in other regions across the country.

Key Learnings

• Listen first: Engage patients and community members early to shape outreach strategies and ensure materials resonate.
• Invest locally: Hire outreach specialists who understand and promote the well-being of the communities they serve.
• Collaborate widely: Partner with local and national organizations that hold trust and influence in the community.

The Bottom Line

Black Americans are disproportionately affected by multiple myeloma, yet with culturally informed outreach, trusted partnerships, and equitable access to cutting-edge care, disparities can be reduced. Myeloma Link demonstrates that when communities are empowered with knowledge, resources, and support, lives can be changed—and saved.

For more information about Blood Cancer United’s programs and services for blood cancer patients, visit BloodCancerUnited.org or call +1-888-557-7177.