Blood cancer poses a threat to a vital component of our existence—blood cells. These cells are crucial in providing energy, combating infections, and preventing excessive bleeding. Thankfully, many effective and safe treatment options are available today. Leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma are some of the most common types of blood cancer.
What is blood cancer?
Blood cancer alters the production and function of blood cells. Typically originating in the bone marrow, where stem cells mature into red and white blood cells and platelets, the disease results in the proliferation of abnormal cells that outnumber healthy ones. This can lead to a cascade of health issues. Advances in treatment have allowed more individuals to live longer with blood cancer.
Are blood cancers serious?
While blood cancers are serious, they are not the most lethal compared to other cancer types. They account for about 10% of all cancer diagnoses in the U.S. annually and roughly 3% of cancer-related deaths. Data from the National Cancer Institute indicates a steady decline in fatalities from blood cancer.
What are survival rates for blood cancer?
Survival statistics are based on averages and may vary by individual. Five-year survival rates help estimate a patient’s health trajectory after diagnosis. Many with blood cancer now have survival expectations similar to those without the disease.
Types of Blood Cancer
Blood cancers are categorized into three main types, each with subtypes:
– Leukemia is common, particularly among children and teenagers. Over the last 40 years, its five-year survival rate has quadrupled. Subtypes include acute and chronic forms like acute lymphoblastic leukemia and chronic myelogenous leukemia.
– Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, including the bone marrow. Its survival rate has doubled in the past four decades, with types such as Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
– Myeloma originates in the bone marrow, affecting plasma cells. Multiple myeloma is the most prevalent form, with over half of patients surviving five years post-diagnosis. Other types include plasmacytoma.
Causes and Symptoms
Causes of Blood Cancer
Blood cancer stems from mutations in the DNA of blood cells, whose specific triggers remain unclear. This results in abnormal cells growing faster and living longer than normal cells, crowding out healthy ones.
– Leukemia may be triggered by environmental and genetic factors, potentially linked to radiation and chemical exposure.
– Lymphoma involves genetic changes in lymphocytes, possibly influenced by infections or immune deficiencies.
– Myeloma is linked to genetic changes in plasma cells, with ongoing research into chromosomal influences.
Common Symptoms of Blood Cancer
Symptoms vary, but some are shared across types:
– Extreme fatigue
– Persistent fever
– Night sweats
– Unusual bleeding or bruising
– Unexplained weight loss
– Frequent infections
– Swollen lymph nodes or organs
– Bone pain
These symptoms can mimic other conditions, so persistent changes should prompt a healthcare consultation.
Diagnosis and Testing
Diagnosis begins with a thorough consultation, possibly followed by various tests. Depending on the suspected cancer type, these may include:
– Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures blood cell levels.
– Blood Chemistry Test: Evaluates blood substances.
– Imaging Scans (CT, MRI, PET): Visualizes internal structures and activity.
– Bone Marrow Biopsy: Analyzes the proportion of normal and abnormal cells.
– Microscopic Blood Examination: Identifies cell abnormalities.
Treatment Options
Blood cancer treatment is personalized, taking into account the individual’s age, health, specific cancer type, and potential treatment side effects. Common treatments include:
– Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
– Radiation Therapy: Targets cancer cells to halt their growth.
– Immunotherapy: Enhances the immune system’s cancer-fighting ability.
– Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific genetic mutations in cancer cells.
– CAR T-Cell Therapy: Modifies immune cells for better cancer treatment.
– Stem Cell Transplants: Reintroduce healthy cells after intensive treatment.
Treatment Side Effects
Treatments, especially chemotherapy and radiation, have side effects ranging from flu-like symptoms in CAR T-cell therapy to digestive issues in targeted therapies. Stem cell transplants can involve serious complications.
Prevention and Risk Reduction
While specific prevention strategies are elusive due to uncertain causes, certain risk factors have been identified, such as exposure to radiation, certain chemicals, immune deficiencies, family history, and inherited conditions. Awareness and monitoring can help manage potential risks.
