Los Angeles, CA – American actor James McCaffrey, known for his roles in popular video games and film, has passed away at the age of 65 after battling cancer. McCaffrey, best recognized for voicing Max Payne in the video game series and more recently Alex Casey in “Alan Wake 2,” was diagnosed with multiple myeloma.
Fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry are mourning the loss of McCaffrey, remembering him for his talent and kindness. The news of his death was first reported by TMZ, revealing that he succumbed to multiple myeloma.
In Canada, it was estimated that in 2023, around 3,900 Canadians would be diagnosed with myeloma, with 1,700 deaths expected from the disease. But what exactly is multiple myeloma, and what are its risks?
Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer characterized by abnormal plasma cells interfering with the production of normal healthy blood cells in the bone marrow. These overproduced abnormal antibodies impact various parts of the body, such as the bones and kidneys.
Although there is no cure for myeloma, treatment can help manage the symptoms and control the disease. It follows a relapsing-remitting pattern, alternating between symptomatic disease requiring treatment and remission periods. A relapse occurs when the disease becomes active again after a period of treatment.
Common symptoms of multiple myeloma include high blood calcium levels, renal insufficiency, anemia, and bone disease. While the exact cause of myeloma remains unknown, genetic errors in plasma cells’ DNA play a role in its development.
Men are at a higher risk than women for developing multiple myeloma, with other known risk factors including a history of certain plasma cell disorders, family history of myeloma, obesity, occupational exposure to certain chemicals, and a weakened immune system.
Early detection and a collaborative approach between patients and healthcare providers are crucial in managing multiple myeloma. Increased awareness and research efforts are needed to better understand and treat this challenging blood cancer.