Brian Durie

Brian Durie: An Enduring Legacy that Will Inspire the Myeloma Community for Years to Come

Dr. Brian Durie, a visionary hematologist and pioneer in multiple myeloma research, passed away on October 12 at the age of 82.

Over his five-decade career, Brian Durie transformed the understanding and treatment of myeloma. His landmark 1975 Durie-Salmon Staging System became a cornerstone in assessing myeloma burden, and he went on to author more than 700 scientific papers.

In 1990, he co-founded the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF), the first global organization dedicated exclusively to multiple myeloma, and later established the Black Swan Research Initiative to accelerate progress toward a cure.

Dr. Durie’s commitment extended far beyond the laboratory – he was deeply devoted to educating patients and mentoring new generations of myeloma researchers. His collaborations spanned the globe, including the groundbreaking iStopMM Project in Iceland, which studies early detection and prevention strategies for the disease. Through his leadership, compassion, and scientific vision, Dr. Durie fundamentally shaped the modern landscape of myeloma care.

Brian Durie: An Enduring Legacy that Will Inspire the Myeloma Community for Years to Come

Leading physicians and organizations around the world mourned his passing, remembering him as a trailblazer, mentor, and advocate whose legacy will continue to guide the myeloma community.

International Myeloma Foundation:

“It is with great sadness that the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) shares the news of the death of Dr. Brian G.M. Durie, co-founder of the organization. Read the press release.”

Joseph Mikhael:

“What a massive loss to the myeloma community and the world. He was an amazing mentor to me and so many others. He will be deeply missed.”

Mohamad Mohty:

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Brian Durie, a pioneer in multiple myeloma.

His Salmon and Durie classification, the first modern framework for this disease, educated and guided thousands of physicians worldwide.

His vision and leadership at the International Myeloma Foundation have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire the myeloma community for years to come.”

Vincent Rajkumar:

“As one of the principal academic beneficiaries of Dr. Brian Durie’s mentorship, guidance, and kindness, I am heartbroken to hear of his passing.

His contributions to myeloma and oncology are without parallel. Charismatic, brilliant, dedicated, Dr. Durie has had a huge impact on generations of myeloma researchers worldwide.

He founded the International Myeloma Foundation and led it for over 30 years. He founded the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) and led it for over 20 years. He developed the Durie Salmon Staging System, which to this day remains a true staging system. Helped countless patients. Educated, trained, and guided countless doctors from around the world. I could go on and on.

I pray for him and his family.”

OncoDaily extends its deepest condolences to Dr. Durie’s family, colleagues, and the countless patients whose lives he touched through his life’s work.

You can find more posts featuring Brian Durie on OncoDaily.