Screening for monoclonal gammopathies in the adult population of Uruguay

Epidemiological Insight: In a population-based screening of 3,905 Uruguayan adults aged >40 years, the prevalence of monoclonal gammopathies was 2.45% for MGUS, 0.02% for SMM, and 0.07% for MM, representing the first epidemiological data on these entities in Uruguay and highlighting the potential of population screening for early disease identification. Public Health Implication: The significant association between advancing age (>55 years) and MGUS prevalence supports the implementation of age-targeted screening strategies, which may facilitate earlier diagnosis, timely therapeutic intervention, and improved health system planning for plasma cell disorders. Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common haematological malignancy. Due to its unspecific clinical presentation, diagnosis is often delayed, leading to significant burdens on the patient and the healthcare system. Precursor stages such as asymptomatic myeloma (SMM) and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) can be easily detected by blood protein analysis. The objective of this research was to determine the prevalence of monoclonal gammopathies (MGs) in the Uruguayan adult population using screening methods. From October 2021 to October 2022, a total of 3,905 participants aged > 40 from private and public healthcare centers were recruited. The prevalence rates observed were 2.45% for MGUS, 0.02% for SMM, and 0.07% for MM. In patients with active disease, early treatment was offered following international guidelines. None of them had organ damage at the time of diagnosis. Consistent with previous reports, advancing age (>55 years) was strongly associated with an increased prevalence of MGUS. Based on this finding, it may be advisable to consider this age threshold for initiating an active screening program. These data are the first to provide the prevalence of MGs in our population. They offer valuable insights that can guide future research efforts and inform public health strategies.