Key facts
- Presenter
- Lauren Laverne
- Diagnosis
- Smouldering myeloma
- Condition type
- Asymptomatic blood and bone marrow disorder
- Risk of blood cancer
- Low in her case
- Current treatment
- None needed
- Monitoring
- Blood tests, MRIs, bone marrow biopsies
Background
Lauren Laverne, a presenter on BBC's The One Show, has been diagnosed with smouldering myeloma, a blood and bone marrow disorder that can, in some people, develop into blood cancer. She announced the diagnosis publicly in July via Instagram.
In her Instagram post, Laverne described the condition as asymptomatic and noted that the risk of it progressing to blood cancer in her case is 'pretty low.' She said she currently feels okay and does not need treatment.
The diagnosis comes two years after Laverne, who also presents Desert Island Discs, said she had been given the 'all clear' after treatment for an unspecified cancer.
Current situation
During Tuesday's episode (August 4) of The One Show, Laverne co-hosted with Alex Jones. The pair introduced a segment about hospitals taking services into shopping centres, a move that helps patients and brings people back to town centres.
After the segment, Laverne referred to her health, telling Jones: 'What a great idea. I mean, Al, you know, I have to do quite a lot of outpatient appointments. And actually the idea of doing them somewhere a little bit more relaxed, a little bit more, it's not quite as kind of medicalised as a hospital, that would be quite nice.'
Jones responded that the initiative brings people back to the high street, calling it a 'win-win.' Laverne agreed, saying 'Absolutely.'
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Diagnosis | Smouldering myeloma |
| Condition | Asymptomatic blood and bone marrow disorder |
| Risk of developing blood cancer | Low in her case |
| Current treatment | None needed |
| Monitoring methods | Blood tests, MRIs, bone marrow biopsies |
| Immune system | Compromised |
Impacts
Laverne's comments highlight the potential benefits of relocating outpatient services to shopping centres for patients who require frequent appointments, such as those with chronic conditions like smouldering myeloma.
The initiative could also benefit town centres by increasing footfall, as Jones noted. However, the extent of these benefits remains unclear from the report.
Laverne's condition means her immune system is compromised, requiring careful monitoring with blood tests, MRIs, and bone marrow biopsies. She said she will need to take good care of herself.
Future outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If Laverne's smouldering myeloma remains stable, she may continue without treatment, as she currently feels well. However, if the condition progresses, she could require treatment, though the report does not specify what that might involve.
The expansion of hospital services into shopping centres could continue if successful, potentially offering more relaxed settings for outpatient care. If not, the initiative may be reconsidered.
Laverne's health will be monitored regularly, and any changes could affect her presenting schedule, though no such impact has been reported.
Source: mirror.co.uk
