The International Myeloma Foundation unveils AI-based chatbot

Myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is a cancer that develops in the bone marrow when plasma cells grow out of control, potentially damaging bones, weakening the immune system, and causing. kidney damage.

This type of cancer is also growing: in 2024, an estimated 35,780 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with multiple myeloma, where rates are up 143% since 1975. Due to the rising prevalence of the disease, there's an increasing demand for accessible and reliable information.

In order to help provide answers to these questions, and to provide support to patients and their caregivers, The International Myeloma Foundation (IMF), a global foundation focusing specifically on multiple myeloma, announced the launch an AI-powered responsive chatbot called Myelo on Thursday.

Myelo is designed to act as the IMF’s virtual assistant for patients, care partners, and healthcare professionals.

It's able to answer frequently asked questions about topics such as symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, clinical trials, and management strategies. It can offer explanations on complex medical terminology, and provide guidance for patients through various stages of the disease, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care. 

The chat uses natural language processing (NLP), artificial intelligence, and machine learning algorithms, accessing the IMF’s web and published resources, in order to engage with users, provide information, make personalized recommendations, and offer real-time support. It's also able to respond to questions in multiple languages.

"Confused by medical jargon after a doctor's appointment? Myelo can translate complex terms into easy-to-understand language. Feeling overwhelmed by treatment options? Myelo can provide information on different approaches and help you navigate the next steps. Worried about how to support your loved one with myeloma? Myelo can offer suggestions for communication and teamwork within your family," the IMF writes on its website. 

Founded in 1990, the IMF has more than 525,000 members in 140 countries worldwide. It has conducted more than 250 educational seminars worldwide.

In 2001, it established the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG), a collaborative research initiative focused on improving myeloma treatment options for patients. In 2012, the IMF launched the Black Swan Research Initiative, a research project aimed at curing myeloma.