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Lauren Laverne reveals blood and bone marrow disorder diagnosis
BBC 6 Music presenter Lauren Laverne has revealed she has been diagnosed with smouldering myeloma, a rare blood and bone marrow disorder that can, in some cases, develop into blood cancer. The former Kenickie frontwoman, who also hosts Desert Island Discs and The One Show, disclosed the news on Instagram, stressing that the condition is currently asymptomatic and does not require treatment, though it means her immune system is compromised.
Laverne said the risk of the disorder progressing to cancer is low in her case, and that it was picked up because, as a previous cancer survivor, she is closely monitored through regular blood tests, MRIs and bone marrow biopsies. She noted the diagnosis is unrelated to her earlier illness or recent surgery, thanked colleagues, family and her GP, and said she is taking a couple of weeks' holiday before returning to work as normal. It comes almost two years after she revealed a separate cancer diagnosis in August 2024, from which she was given the all-clear that November.
In short
- Lauren Laverne diagnosed with smouldering myeloma, a chronic blood disorder
- Condition is asymptomatic, low risk, no treatment needed currently
- Follows her earlier cancer diagnosis and all-clear in 2024
Explained simply
Smouldering myeloma is a rare blood and bone marrow disorder that sits between normal health and multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer. In some cases it progresses to cancer, though for many people the condition remains stable for years. People with it typically experience no symptoms and do not need immediate treatment, though the condition indicates their immune system is weakened and requires ongoing monitoring.
Lauren Laverne is a prominent broadcaster and former musician, best known for presenting BBC 6 Music, Desert Island Discs and The One Show. She was previously diagnosed with cancer in August 2024 but received the all-clear in November that year. Because of her previous illness, she receives regular medical monitoring including blood tests and bone marrow biopsies, which enabled doctors to diagnose her smouldering myeloma.
The diagnosis is significant because Laverne is a well-known broadcaster; her decision to speak publicly about her health condition means many people are now learning about smouldering myeloma for the first time. This case demonstrates what the condition actually entails, including how it can be monitored and managed without immediate treatment.