By Dr. Kibet Shikuku, Hematologist, The Nairobi West Hospital
Blood cancer, a malignancy originating in the bone marrow, is recognized and observed during Blood Cancer Awareness Month every September. This month is dedicated to increasing public knowledge about blood cancers, their symptoms, risk factors, and available treatments. Blood cancer occurs when abnormal blood cells overwhelm normal ones, leading to various health complications. This article provides an overview of blood cancer types, symptoms, risks, and treatment options.
Types of Blood Cancer
Blood cancer, which originates in the bone marrow, includes several types:
1. Leukemia: The most prevalent blood cancer in the United States and among children and teenagers. Over the past 40 years, the five-year survival rate for leukemia has significantly improved.
2. Lymphoma: This cancer affects the lymphatic system, including the bone marrow. Survival rates for lymphoma have also doubled in the past four decades.
3. Myeloma: Myeloma starts in the bone marrow and impacts plasma cells. Multiple myeloma is the most common type, with over half of diagnosed individuals surviving five years post-diagnosis.
Each of these blood cancers is further categorized into specific sub-types:
– Leukemia: Includes Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), and Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML).
– Lymphoma: Encompasses Hodgkin Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Waldenström Macroglobulinemia, Follicular Lymphoma, B-cell Lymphoma, and Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma.
– Myeloma: Comprises Multiple Myeloma, Plasmacytoma, and Amyloidosis.
Symptoms of Blood Cancer
Blood cancer symptoms can vary but commonly include:
– Unexplained weight loss
– Unexplained bruising or bleeding
– Lumps or swelling
– Shortness of breath
– Night sweats
– Persistent, severe infections
– Recurrent fever
– Rash or itchy skin
– Pain in bones, joints, or abdomen
– Fatigue
– Pale complexion
Risk Factors and Causes
The precise causes of blood cancer are not fully understood, but it is believed that a combination of genetic and environmental factors contributes to its development. Risk factors include:
Age: Risk increases with age.
Sex: Some types of blood cancer are more common in one gender.
Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups have higher incidence rates.
Family History: A family history of blood cancer can elevate risk.
Radiation or Chemical Exposure: Exposure to these elements can increase risk.
Other Health Conditions: Conditions such as autoimmune diseases or previous cancer treatments may contribute.
Treatment Options
One of the most effective treatments for blood cancer is Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT). This procedure involves replacing damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy cells, aiming to restore normal blood cell production. BMT is used for treating leukemia, lymphoma, aplastic anemia, multiple myeloma, and other hematologic disorders.
At The Nairobi West Hospital’s Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, we provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for blood disorders. Our offerings include routine blood count tests, cell and bone marrow transplantation, and specialized care for conditions such as low or high red blood cell counts and genetic blood diseases. We support patients from initial diagnosis through ongoing treatment and care.
BMT is applicable not only for blood cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma but also for non-cancerous conditions such as aplastic anemia, myelofibrosis, and immune deficiency disorders.
Blood Cancer Awareness Month serves as a crucial time to promote understanding and early detection of blood cancer. Awareness can lead to better prevention, early diagnosis, and more effective treatments, ultimately improving outcomes and saving lives.
