Lauren Laverne, popular presenter of BBC Radio 6 Music and Radio 4's Desert Island Discs, has been diagnosed with smouldering myeloma – a blood and bone marrow disorder that can develop years after recovery from cancer. This news may come as a shock to fans who will remember she received the all-clear in late 2024 after sharing her cancer diagnosis.
Smouldering myeloma is an asymptomatic condition, meaning it doesn't cause noticeable symptoms, but is characterised by abnormal levels of blood plasma cells in the bone marrow. Fortunately, Lauren's risk of developing full-blown blood cancer from smouldering myeloma is currently low. On social media, she explained her decision to go public with this new diagnosis was motivated by a desire to support others facing similar health challenges.
The condition is chronic and cannot be cured at present, which means Lauren's immune system will require ongoing monitoring to prevent complications. Regular blood tests, MRI scans, and bone marrow biopsies will be necessary to keep her situation under review. However, she reassures us that she doesn't currently need active treatment for smouldering myeloma, and this new diagnosis is unrelated to her previous cancer experience.
According to Blood Cancer UK, there are over 53,000 people in the UK undergoing active monitoring for various blood cancers – including smouldering myeloma. The charity provides specialist nurse support and information for those with concerns about blood cancer diagnoses or ongoing monitoring. If you're unsure about your own risk or have questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Lauren has expressed her gratitude for the early detection of her condition, crediting her GP's diligence in spotting low iron levels – a key factor in her diagnosis. She plans to take a short break before returning to her broadcasting commitments, and hopes her story will encourage others to open up about their own health journeys.