Military Service and MGUS Risk: What Veterans and Their Families Should Know

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is a condition that can precede multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. A recent study sheds light on the increased prevalence of MGUS among U.S. military service members. 

This article explores the study findings, highlighting key takeaways for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.

The Military MGUS Study: What Researchers Found

The study examined 1,589 military service members who had been deployed to Iraq, Germany, or who were not deployed internationally, analyzing their serum samples approximately ten years after their deployment. The goal was to assess whether deployment, burn pit exposure, or other factors increased the risk of developing MGUS or its subtype, light-chain MGUS (LC-MGUS).

Military Service and MGUS: Surprising Connections

1. Increased Prevalence of MGUS:

• The prevalence of MGUS or LC-MGUS among all military members in the study was 5.9%, significantly higher than the 0.88% reported in the general population aged 40-49 years (Landgren, BCJ, 2017).

2. Deployment and MGUS Risk:

• Service military members deployed to Iraq or Germany had a similar MGUS prevalence compared to those not deployed internationally (4.5% vs. 5.2%, respectively).

• However, deployment was associated with a higher risk of LC-MGUS (1.6% in deployed members vs. 0.2% in non-deployed).

3. Burn Pit Exposure:

• Surprisingly, burn pit exposure did not significantly increase the risk of MGUS or LC-MGUS among deployed SMs.

4. Unidentified Etiologies:

• The findings suggest that an unidentified factor linked to deployment may contribute to the development of LC-MGUS, indicating a need for further research into its genomic and biological mechanisms.

Practical Implications for Veterans and Their Healthcare

1. Heightened Awareness:

• Military service members, particularly those deployed internationally, may face a higher risk of MGUS. Routine monitoring for MGUS and related conditions can aid in early detection and management.

2. Understanding MGUS and LC-MGUS:

• MGUS is generally considered a benign condition, but can progress to multiple myeloma or other blood disorders. LC-MGUS, a subtype with abnormal serum free light chains, may carry distinct risks and warrant closer follow-up.

3. Burn Pit Exposure:

• While burn pit exposure was not directly linked to higher MGUS prevalence, its potential long-term health effects remain a concern. Patients with a history of such exposure should discuss their risks with healthcare providers.

Future Research: Filling the Knowledge Gaps

The study underscores the need for further research to uncover the causes behind the increased prevalence of MGUS in military populations. Identifying these factors could improve prevention strategies and early interventions for at-risk groups.

While this research reveals important connections between military service and MGUS risk, it's essential to understand that MGUS often remains stable for years or even decades. Many people with MGUS never develop myeloma or related conditions. This information is meant to empower veterans with knowledge for proactive healthcare decisions, not to cause unnecessary concern.

Takeaways

For precursor and active myeloma patients and caregivers, this study highlights the importance of understanding MGUS risk factors, especially in unique populations like military service members. 

If you or a loved one has a history of military service, consider discussing MGUS screening with your healthcare provider. Awareness and proactive health monitoring can make a significant difference in early detection and care.

If you are a service member who has been diagnosed with myeloma or a precursor condition and has not accessed veteran benefits, consider reading or watching the following resources: 

• Benefits for Veterans: A Briefing (2021 Webinar) 

• Understanding Disability Benefits for Veterans 

• Greg Proctor's Journey with Multiple Myeloma

Are you a veteran or do you care for someone with military service history?

Understanding your MGUS risk is an important part of your healthcare journey. Speaking with a myeloma specialist who understands the unique health concerns of veterans can make all the difference in proper monitoring and care. Visit our directory to find a myeloma specialist near you. Taking this proactive step could be crucial for early detection and appropriate follow-up care.

Myeloma Specialist Directory

Sources:

• Prevalence of myeloma precursor state monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance in 12372 individuals 10–49 years old: a population-based study from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey | Blood Cancer Journal

• Paper: Increased Risk of Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance in US Military Service Members