BBC 6 Music star and 'Desert Island Discs' host Lauren Laverne has announced she has been diagnosed with smouldering myeloma, a chronic condition affecting the blood and bone marrow. The 48-year-old broadcaster shared the news with her Instagram followers on Friday, 17 July, explaining that while there is currently no cure, her risk of the disorder progressing into blood cancer is considered low.
Laverne reassured fans that she is currently feeling well and does not require active treatment. She noted that many people her age with the condition are unaware they have it, suggesting that her prior experience as a cancer survivor led to an earlier diagnosis due to close medical monitoring. However, she clarified that this new diagnosis is unrelated to her previous illness or recent surgery.
The diagnosis came after Laverne's GP identified persistently low iron levels during a routine check-up. She expressed immense gratitude for her GP's diligence in catching this and a previous health issue early. Laverne, who was diagnosed with cancer in August 2024 and received the all-clear in November of the same year, stated that she chose to share her experience publicly to help others navigate similar health challenges.
Moving forward, Laverne will require careful monitoring, including regular blood tests, MRI scans, and bone marrow biopsies, as her immune system is now considered somewhat compromised. She acknowledged the difficulty of facing another significant health challenge less than two years after her previous diagnosis, but highlighted the strength and perspective gained from past experiences.
Smouldering myeloma is a pre-cancerous condition where abnormal plasma cells are found in the bone marrow, but without symptoms or organ damage typically associated with active multiple myeloma. According to NHS guidelines, individuals with smouldering myeloma are monitored closely due to an increased risk of progression to multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. Regular follow-ups are crucial to detect any changes early, though many individuals may never progress to active disease.