Blood cancers arise from blood cells, bone marrow or the lymphatic system. This can affect anyone regardless of race, age or gender. The three main types of blood cancer are leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Blood cancer, a very dreaded disease, is viewed with much apprehension due to numerous myths surrounding its causes and treatment. Dr. Mitu Srikhande, Senior Consultant- Hematology, Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj recommends 10 questions you should ask your doctor immediately after your blood cancer diagnosis.Also Read – From Lisa Ray to Manisha Koirala: 9 Indian actresses who battled cancer with a tough smile
10 questions to ask your doctor now:
1. What is blood cancer?
It is a heterogeneous broad term for cancer originating in the bone marrow and lymphatic system. It includes 3 main categories – Leukemia – Acute / Chronic, Lymphomas – Hodgkin’s / Non Hodgkin’s and Multiple Myeloma. Also Read – Kiron Kher cancer update: ‘Yeh Zindagi Hai’, she adds, ‘There is no way out except treatment’
2. Can blood cancer be treated?
Yes. They are not only treatable but potentially curable in 50-80% of cases depending on age, stage and subtype. A diagnosis of blood cancer is not a death sentence. Also Read – 5 Common Blood Cancer Myths Debunked
3. Can blood cancer be prevented?
No. We cannot prevent blood cancer but by raising awareness of the warning signs of blood cancer, we can help patients report it earlier, early treatment can improve outcomes.
4. What are the symptoms and signs of blood cancer?
Lymphoma and Leukemia – lumps in the neck, armpit or groin, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, swelling of the face and neck, difficulty breathing, enlarged liver and spleen, persistent unexplained fever with swollen gums and bleeding. Myeloma may present with anemia, bone pain (back pain is classical), minor trauma fractures, unexplained kidney dysfunction, and recurrent infections.
5. What causes blood cancer?
Risk factors that are associated with exposure to radiation, chemotherapy, toxins such as benzene, tanning products, and pesticides. Unknown acquired mutations in DNA can lead to blood cancer.
6. Is blood cancer hereditary?
No. Blood cancers are acquired and not hereditary. They are not contagious and do not spread from one family member to another.
7. Can blood cancer occur at any age?
Yes. Although they are more common in the elderly, no age is excluded. Blood cancers account for 26% of all childhood cancers.
8. How can we diagnose blood cancer?
CBC (complete blood counts), including peripheral smear, bone marrow studies, flow cytometry or immunophenotyping, chromosomal studies, molecular studies, excisional lymph node biopsy are some of the tests required to make the diagnosis.
9. What is the role of FNAC of lymph nodes in the diagnosis of lymphoma?
FNAC has no role in making the diagnosis. Excisional lymph node biopsy is required for definitive diagnosis.
10. What is the staging of blood cancer?
Acute leukemia is not staged. It is divided into risk groups. Lymphoma is staged based on PET CT and bone marrow studies. Myeloma is staged based on risk scores and kidney involvement.
