Blood Cancer

In the bone marrow, there are special cells called stem cells that transform into three important types of blood cells: platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells. If something disrupts the normal production of these blood cells, it can lead to a type of cancer known as blood cancer.

Now, let’s explore further to understand the symptoms, causes, and other important aspects of blood cancer.

What is Blood?

Blood serves as a vital fluid network in the body, transporting essential nutrients, hormones, and gases like oxygen. It’s crucial for regulating body temperature and maintaining pH balance.

Human blood comprises various cells: red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leucocytes), and blood platelets (thrombocytes), along with plasma containing proteins, salts, and water.

What is Blood Cancer?

Blood cancer, also referred to as hematologic cancer, occurs when there’s a problem with the blood cells and bone marrow. This disrupts how these cells are made and what they do, causing cancer cells to grow abnormally.

Now, let’s delve into the various types of blood cancer.

Types of Blood Cancer

Blood cancers, unlike breast, lung, and colorectal cancers, are often referred to as liquid tumors. While these types of cancers don’t typically form solid masses, they can affect various parts of the body. Some arise in the blood and bone marrow, while others develop in lymph nodes or other lymphatic tissues. The three primary types of blood cancer include:

Leukemia

Leukemia originates in the bone marrow and affects the blood. It can be either acute or chronic, depending on the pace of its growth. Leukemia impacts either myeloid cells, which can develop into different types of blood cells, or lymphoid cells, a specific type of white blood cell. There are four main types of leukemia:

• Acute lymphocytic leukemia
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
• Acute myeloid leukemia
• Chronic myeloid leukemia

Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system and affects white blood cells known as lymphocytes. There are two primary types of lymphoma:

• Hodgkin lymphoma, which typically starts in B cells
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which can originate in either B cells or T cells and may vary in its growth and spread rate.

Myeloma:

Myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, targets plasma cells, which produce infection-fighting antibodies. This type of blood cancer can lead to decreased levels of red and white blood cells and platelets.

Blood Cancer Symptoms

Blood cancer symptoms differ between men and women. Below are the common signs of blood cancer.

1. Fever
2. Severe headaches
3. Itchy skin
4. Back pain
5. Fatigue
6. Breathing problems
7. Rapid weight loss
8. Persistent cough

Blood Cancer Symptoms in Females

Specific symptoms for women may include:

1. Difficulty swallowing
2. Recurrent infections
3. Weakness
4. Pelvic pain
5. Changes in nipples
6. Wheezing
7. Swollen breasts
8. Stomachache
9. Loss of appetite

Causes of Blood Cancer

Blood cancers stem from genetic mutations in blood cells’ DNA. Factors contributing to their development differ depending on the specific type.

For acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the most common form in adults, risks include:

1. Age advancement
2. Male gender
3. Exposure to industrial chemicals like benzene
4. Smoking
5. Past cancer treatment
6. High radiation exposure
7. Previous blood cancer history

For Hodgkin lymphoma, risk factors are:

1. Prior infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), causing mono
2. Advancing age
3. Male gender
4. Family history of Hodgkin lymphoma
5. Weakened immune system

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma risk factors involve:

1. Exposure to specific industrial chemicals, herbicides, and insecticides
2. Previous chemotherapy
3. Radiation exposure
4. Weakened immune system
5. History of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus

Multiple myeloma risk factors include:

1. Age advancement
2. Male gender
3. Higher risk among African Americans
4. Obesity or excess body weight

Blood Cancer Treatment

Most blood cancers can be managed but not cured completely. However, there are rare cases where certain types of cancer can be cured. For instance, myeloma can be cured through treatment in exceptional situations, and some non-Hodgkin lymphomas respond well to chemotherapy.

Treating blood cancer depends on various factors, including the specific type of cancer, its characteristics, how far it has progressed, and the individual’s overall health. Treatment options may include:

1. Keeping a close eye on the disease for any changes (active surveillance/watchful waiting)
2. Blood transfusions
3. Chemotherapy
4. Immunotherapy, like CAR T-cell therapy or rituximab treatment
5. Radiation therapy
6. Stem cell (bone marrow) transplantation
7. Surgery to remove affected lymph nodes or the spleen, if necessary
8. Targeted therapies

Participating in clinical trials might be an option for some patients. Palliative care can also be provided to manage pain and other symptoms effectively.

Blood Cancer Diagnosis

In some cases, symptoms can kickstart the diagnosis, while other times, irregularities may be detected through routine blood tests.

Your healthcare provider will review your medical history and might conduct a physical examination to check for swelling in your lymph nodes, liver, or spleen, as well as signs of bleeding or bruising. The diagnostic process may involve several tests:

1. Blood tests: These tests, like a complete blood count (CBC), assess levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. An increase in white blood cells could indicate leukemia.
2. Bone marrow biopsy: This procedure involves taking a sample of bone marrow to examine for cancer cells. Blood and tissue samples may be analyzed to determine the type of leukemia.
3. Genetic tests: Your healthcare provider might suggest genetic testing to identify any changes in your genes or chromosomes, providing insights into the cancer at a genetic level.
4. Imaging tests: Various imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, can provide a visual representation of how the cancer is affecting your body.

Blood Cancer Survival Rates

Different types of blood cancer have varied outcomes, influenced by factors like the patient’s health, age, and how they respond to treatment.

For example, according to the National Cancer Institute, survival rates after five years are around 67% for leukemia, showing significant improvement over the last half-century. Other survival rates include:

• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma: about 74%
• Hodgkin lymphoma: nearly 89%
• Myeloma: approximately 60%

It’s important to note that these figures are estimates based on past data and treatments. Advancements in medicine offer hope for even better outcomes in the future.

Prevention Tips for Blood Cancer

Despite extensive research, scientists have yet to discover foolproof methods to prevent most types of blood cancer. While there are no definite risk factors identified for this disease, reducing known ones is crucial. Simple actions can bolster immunity and mitigate risk to some degree.

• Minimize Radiation Exposure:

Avoid exposure to high levels of radiation, particularly during certain medical treatments where patients may encounter intense radiation, elevating the risk of blood cancer.

• Steer Clear of Harmful Chemicals:

Stay away from hazardous chemicals like pesticides, which can heighten the risk of blood cancer. If your job exposes you to such substances, ensure proper safety measures are taken. Exposure to benzene can also escalate the likelihood of this cancer.

• Say No to Smoking and Tobacco:

Eliminate all forms of tobacco and smoking from your lifestyle. These habits not only pose a significant risk for cancer but also for various other diseases.

To reduce the risk of cancer, adopt the following healthy lifestyle habits:

• Regular Exercise:

Engage in 30 minutes of daily exercise to maintain overall health. While evidence isn’t conclusive, regular exercise may lower the chances of developing blood cancer.

• Healthy Diet:

Consume a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, which provide essential nutrients and fibers. This dietary habit can decrease the risk of blood cancer to some extent.

• Pay Attention to Symptoms:

Be vigilant about your body and any signals it may be sending, especially if you’re exposed to known risk factors for blood cancer. Consult a doctor promptly if any cancer-related symptoms arise.

• Prioritize Health Checkups:

Regular health checkups facilitate early detection of blood cancer, improving treatment outcomes.

By adopting these practices, you can proactively reduce the risk of blood cancer and promote overall well-being.

FAQs on Blood Cancer

What are the common symptoms of blood cancer?

Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, weight loss, and breathing problems.

What causes blood cancer?

Genetic mutations in blood cells' DNA are primary causes, along with factors like age, gender, and exposure to chemicals or radiation.

What are the treatment options?

Treatments include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation.

How is blood cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, genetic tests, and imaging scans.

Can blood cancer be prevented?

While prevention methods are limited, lifestyle changes such as avoiding tobacco and maintaining a healthy diet can help reduce risk. Regular health checkups are also important for early detection.