BBC radio and television presenter Lauren Laverne has publicly disclosed that she has been diagnosed with smouldering myeloma, a condition that sits between a benign blood abnormality and active cancer. Unlike symptomatic myeloma, smouldering myeloma involves abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow producing detectable proteins without yet causing organ damage — meaning Laverne requires no chemotherapy at this stage. Doctors typically manage the condition through structured "watchful waiting," with regular blood tests to catch any progression early, as advances in myeloma treatment mean outcomes have improved significantly in recent years even if the condition does develop further.