Blood cancer, also known as hematological cancer, is caused by a disruption in the normal production and function of blood cells. Bone marrow is responsible for producing blood cells. It is one of the most common types of cancer in the world.
Blood cancer can cause blood cells to turn malignant and interfere with normal functions like fighting infection or clotting.
The three primary types of blood cancer are leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
Leukemia involves white blood cells, while lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that involves the lymphatic system. Myeloma affects plasma cells present in the bone marrow.
Commonly observed blood cancer symptoms include fatigue, recurrent infections, bleeding or bruising, or bone and joint pain.
Treatment options are based on the type and stage of blood cancer, and options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplant. Modern treatments have significantly increased the survival rate for many patients diagnosed with blood cancer.
Survival rates of blood cancer vary by type, stage, and patient's overall health. For leukemia, five-year survival is 60–70%, with a usually higher rate among children.
The survival rate for lymphoma varies by subtype. Hodgkin’s lymphoma has an approximately 89% survival rate, whereas non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma has about 74% survival rate.
Multiple myeloma has a five-year survival rate of about 60–80%, depending on the stage at which it is diagnosed. Moreover, the survival rate can be improved with advanced treatment options, like targeted therapies and stem cell transplants.
Early detection and personalized treatment also play a big role in further improving survival.
The three types of blood cancer are:
It is a blood cancer that occurs in the bone marrow and usually signifies an abnormality of white blood cells. Leukemia leads to the uncontrolled production of abnormal white cells that replace normal cells and impair the immune system's ability to fight infections. This disease also alters the production of red blood cells and platelets, making patients lean, prone to easy bleeding or bruising, and anemic. Leukemia is classified into different types, including acute or chronic, depending on the speed of progression and according to the type of white blood cell involved, i.e., acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphoblastic leukemia (CLL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Leukemia symptoms can include anemia, fever, recurrent infections, loss of weight, swollen lymph nodes, and easy bleeding and bruising. Commonly recommended treatment options for leukemia include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplants. Survival rates will improve in cases where the disease is caught early and effectively treated.
Lymphoma is a blood cancer characterized by its origin within the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune mechanism responsible for combating infections and maintaining fluid balance. Lymphoma results when lymphocytes divide uncontrollably, resulting in lumps in the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, or any other body location. There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Hodgkin's lymphoma is relatively rare, with a predictable pattern, and usually spreads from one lymph node group to another. NHL is much more common and can develop in any area of the lymphatic system with a generally more random spread. The most frequent signs and symptoms are swollen lymph nodes in the neck, fever, night sweats, fatigue, loss of weight, and pruritus. The treatment for lymphoma often involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted drugs. These treatments depend on the type, stage of blood cancer, and aggressiveness of the tumor. Early blood cancer diagnosis and timely treatment significantly enhance the chances of successful treatment and survival.
Myeloma affects the plasma cells, a type of white blood cell in the marrow. Normally, these plasma cells produce antibodies that safeguard the body against infections. In myeloma patients, abnormally-multiplying plasma cells take over healthy cells and produce defective antibodies called M proteins. These proteins can lead to bone damage, kidney problems, anemia, and an impaired immune system. Common symptoms include bone pain, weakness and excessive fatigue, frequent infections, and unexplained weight loss. High calcium levels in the blood from myeloma may cause nausea, constipation, and confusion. Even though myeloma is considered incurable, different options exist for controlling the condition and effectively managing the disease. Some of these include chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation. The treatment depends on the stage of blood cancer at which the person was diagnosed and their general health status. Advances in therapy over time have improved survival and quality of life for many patients with myeloma.
The characteristics of different stages of blood cancer may vary depending on the type of cancer. They may also vary depending on the rate at which the disease progresses, chronic or acute.
For staging myeloma, doctors use a different approach altogether, wherein certain tests are performed, and based on the results of those tests, myeloma is diagnosed.
While staging leukemia, doctors generally don’t use numbers, and the disease’s extent or stage is determined based on the WBC count.
During stage 0 lymphoma, there are not many changes observed. Lymph nodes and spleen are normal. During stage 0 myeloma, there will be no significant anomalies in the results of blood tests. There will be no organ damage or bone damage as such.
In stage 1 lymphoma, the tumor is either present only in a single lymph node or lymphoid organ, e.g., tonsils, OR it is in a single organ outside the lymphatic system. Stage 1 myeloma is characterized by less than 3.5 mg/L serum beta-2 microglobulin (B2M) level, 3.5 g/dL or more albumin level, and normal LDH levels. In this stage, genetic test results are not considered high risk.
In stage 2 lymphoma, the tumor is present in ≥2 lymph nodes on the same side of the diaphragm (either above or below) OR in one nearby organ and group of lymph nodes. In stage 2 myeloma, the test results are higher than in stage 1 but lower than in stage 3.
In stage 3 lymphoma, the tumor is present both above and below the diaphragm OR above the diaphragm and in the spleen. Stage 3 myeloma is characterized by 5.5 mg/L or more B2M levels and high LDH levels. Cytogenetics is considered high-risk.
In stage 4 lymphoma, metastasis to ≥1 organ beyond the lymphatic system, such as the liver, bone marrow, or lung, is observed. Stage 4 is not typically used in myeloma staging; stage 3 is the most advanced.
Although blood cancer can occur in any person at any age, they are relatively more common in certain at-risk groups.
Leukemia is most common among children and the elderly group of the age of 60 or older.
Lymphoma is more common among adults, with non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas frequently occurring in those over age 60 and Hodgkin’s lymphomas occurring in a somewhat younger population and older adults.
Myeloma tends to occur in patients above 65 years.
In specific subgroups of blood cancer, more men may be diagnosed with such diseases than women. Early blood cancer diagnosis and treatment are crucial for effective disease management.
The following are the commonly observed signs of blood cancer:
Fatigue is one of the most common and debilitating signs and symptoms of blood cancer. In blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, abnormal production of blood cells results in anemia and depletes oxygen supplies to tissues, leading to extreme fatigue. The body's immune system is impaired, making it difficult to fight infections. Aggressive chemotherapy, radiation, and many other treatments also contribute to chronic fatigue because they damage healthy cells. Fatigue associated with blood cancer is often persistent; it does not get better even after resting.
One of the most common symptoms of blood cancer is persistent fever, especially in cases of leukemia and lymphoma. Blood cancers cause bone marrow damage and abnormal WBC production, which weaken the body’s immune system and cause persistent fever. Also, a persistent fever in blood cancer patients may be the body’s attempt to act against these malignant cells.
Drenching night sweats, which occur without physical exertion or high temperatures, may also indicate the presence of blood cancer, especially lymphoma. They may result from the body's reaction against cancerous cells or fever-inducing cytokines. Night sweats associated with blood cancer are persistent.
Another common symptom of blood cancer, especially leukemia, is unusual bleeding and bruising. Blood cancer can disrupt the formation of adequate platelets in the body, which are required for blood clotting. Therefore, the patient experiences frequent nosebleeds, gum bleeding, small red spots under the skin, known as petechiae, and bruises quickly.
Infections are common in patients with blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma. Blood cancers impair the formation of normal white blood cells required for the immune system's optimum functioning. The symptoms include frequent colds, respiratory diseases, or even skin infections. Patients should seek medical intervention when necessary.
Bone pain is also one of the common symptoms of blood cancer, such as leukemia and myeloma, because cancerous cells invade the bone marrow. The condition causes inflammation and pressure within the bones, with pain mainly in long bones such as legs, arms, and sometimes the back. The discomfort usually increases during increased activity or at night, prompting further medical assessment and evaluation.
Unexplained and unintentional weight loss is also a symptom of blood cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma. The unexplained weight loss is due to imbalances in the metabolism due to cancer and increased energy use. This is one of the common symptoms of leukemia in adults. This can be associated with reduced appetite, a sense of nausea, and irritation of the body caused by the inflammation associated with the disease.
Swelling in the lymph nodes is a common symptom of blood cancers, specifically lymphoma and leukemia. Often, painless swollen nodes occur at the neck, armpits, or groin due to cancer cells invading the lymphatic system. Swelling from the immune reaction to these abnormal cells may not be noticed until they are visibly enlarged or tender. Persistent swelling in lymph nodes requires immediate medical investigation.
The most frequent symptom of blood cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma, is shortness of breath. It results from anemia. A lack of red blood cell production can cause the body’s oxygen levels to drop, thus causing shortness of breath. Lymphoma tumors may also compress the lungs and the airway, making breathing difficult.
Itchy skin or a rash may be a blood cancer symptom on the skin, particularly lymphoma. Such itching can result from chemicals released by cancer cells or an immunological response to the malignancy. A new rash that appears without any apparent reason should be promptly evaluated.
Various factors increase the risk of blood cancer. The following are some of the possible reasons for blood cancer:
The causes of leukemia cancer are not exactly known. However, some risk factors may increase susceptibility. Genetic predispositions play an essential role; individuals afflicted with particular hereditary disorders, for example, Down syndrome, are at a higher risk. Additionally, exposure to harmful radiation and hazardous chemicals, e.g., benzene and some chemotherapy drugs, may also become the cause of blood cancer.
Age is another contributing factor, and older people have a relatively greater incidence. A weakened immune system due to a genetically inherited disease or a disease condition acquired later in life may also increase the risk of leukemia.
The exact cause of lymphoma development remains unknown. However, many factors can increase its risk. There is also a familial predisposition, and a history of lymphoma among family members increases the individual's chance of developing lymphoma.
Some chemicals, such as pesticides and herbicides, have been identified as risk factors for lymphoma.
A history of radiation therapy can also increase one’s lymphoma risk. Viral infections, such as Epstein-Barr and HIV, are highly associated with particular types of lymphomas.
In addition, a compromised immune system, which can result either from congenital disabilities or autoimmune disorders, increases lymphoma risk. Moreover, age and gender also impact the risk of lymphoma. It is more common in older people and males.
The definitive causes of multiple myeloma are unknown, but certain risk factors exist. The most common risk factor is a family history of myeloma or another blood disorder.
Exposure to chemicals such as benzene and pesticides and previous radiation therapy for other cancers are believed to predispose patients to myeloma. Another cause would be chronic inflammation, as seen in autoimmune diseases.
Individuals over 65 years and men are more likely to develop myeloma.
It is important to see an oncologist if you have recurring lymphoma, leukemia, or myeloma cancer symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, unusual bleeding or bruising, swollen lymph nodes, or significant weight loss. You should also see an oncologist if you have a family history of blood cancers or are exposed to chemicals or radiation.
The oncologist will perform the proper assessment and evaluation to provide appropriate treatment. Therefore, timely intervention would lead to optimum outcomes in such cases.
There are multiple testing methods available for blood cancer diagnosis. Initially, a physical examination is performed when an individual visits the doctor with blood cancer symptoms.
Based on the observations from the physical examination, different combinations of these tests are recommended for patients for a confirmed diagnosis.
The following are the different tests available for blood cancer diagnosis:
A complete blood count is an important blood cancer diagnosis test to determine various aspects of the blood, such as hematocrit value, the numbers of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and other blood-related parameters. A CBC test can help detect abnormalities that indicate the presence of blood cancer. That said, a complete blood count is not a confirmatory diagnostic test for blood cancer, as various other diseases may affect the count of various blood cells.
Blood chemistry tests are another method for determining the presence of blood cancers. They detect the levels of various blood components, such as proteins, electrolytes, and enzymes. They help detect various blood diseases, including blood cancer. Elevated calcium levels may occur in myeloma, while abnormal liver function may suggest a metastatic state.
Magnetic resonance imaging is a blood cancer diagnosis technique, including multiple myeloma and lymphoma. Whole-body MRI is considered highly sensitive for assessing myeloma and is endorsed in several clinical guidelines. It helps in the detection and staging of myeloma. Whole-body MRI in lymphoma may be considered early in the disease. MRI is also done to assess the treatment response.
If blood cancer, such as myeloma, is suspected after a physical examination and evaluation of the symptoms, the doctor may advise a computed tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan is a non-invasive blood cancer diagnosis technique that detects enlarged lymph nodes. It also helps detect blood cancers that may have spread to other organs. It is also done to determine the extent of the disease, guide biopsies, and monitor the treatment's efficacy. Although a CT scan is not diagnostic for blood cancer, it allows clinicians to guide further courses of action, including biopsies and developing individualized treatment plans.
Bone marrow biopsies are usually the confirmatory tests for blood cancer diagnosis. They allow clinicians to evaluate the number of abnormal and normal blood cells. They also help detect any mutation that results in the development of cancerous cells and determine whether the malignancy of the bone marrow is primary or secondary. During a bone marrow biopsy, the doctor obtains a small sample of bone marrow tissue, usually from the hipbone, to evaluate the presence of abnormal cells and detect the type of mutation. The results of the bone marrow biopsy allow the oncologists to plan the treatment.
PET scans, which use radiotracer substances, are also helpful in diagnosing and staging various blood cancers, such as lymphomas. The test involves detecting the increased metabolic activity at the site of division and proliferation of cancer cells. This imaging technique assists oncologists in detecting lymph node involvement, treatment efficacy, and tumor relapse. Integrating it with a CT scan may increase its effectiveness.
A blood cell examination is usually part of a complete blood count test. It is important in diagnosing blood cancer as it allows clinicians to determine the level of various blood cells. For instance, blood cell examination may help to diagnose sickle cell anemia by detecting the sickle shape of red blood cells. Blood cell examination also involves determining the morphological abnormalities, such as the presence of atypical or immature cells that may indicate hematological malignancies.
For better health outcomes, blood cancer treatment should be personalized according to the individual needs of the patient. Some patients may show a better response to chemotherapy, while others may need chemotherapy with another treatment for better results.
Personalized treatment planning involves doctors carefully studying the case information, paying attention to the details of the genetics of cancer, its stage, and grade, and assessing the patient’s overall health before deciding which treatment suits them the best.
The following are the different approaches available for blood cancer treatment:
Chemotherapy for blood cancer is usually a first-line treatment for various blood cancers, including leukemias, lymphomas, and multiple myelomas. Chemotherapy for leukemia, for instance, involves the administration of chemotherapy drugs, oral or intravenous, to kill all the rapidly dividing cells in the body, such as malignant cells. Administration of chemotherapy drugs may either result in complete or partial remission. Chemotherapy may or may not be accompanied by other treatments, depending on individual case parameters.
In the case of localized lymphoma, oncologists may recommend radiotherapy. Radiation therapy for blood cancer involves killing cancerous cells using high-energy radiation. As radiation therapy alone is insufficient to treat blood cancers, it is usually combined with various other blood cancer treatments, such as stem cell transplantation, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. It may also be recommended to alleviate the symptoms of blood cancer by shrinking the size of the tumor in the spleen, lymph nodes, or liver.
Also known as biologic therapy, immunotherapy utilizes the patient's immune system to fight against the cancer cells. The side effects of immunotherapy are relatively fewer. Various immunotherapy options studied for blood cancer treatment are cytokine treatment, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, monoclonal antibody therapy, and therapeutic cancer vaccines. During immunotherapy, the patient's immune system is stimulated to fight against cancer cells effectively. Immunotherapy for blood cancer also helps detect cancer cells more efficiently.
Targeted therapy is also another option for blood cancer treatment. Targeted therapy is a type of precision medicine where the patient’s genomic, environmental, and lifestyle factors are taken into consideration while planning the treatment. Targeted therapy for blood cancer focuses on specific molecular targets of cancer cells, such as enzymes and various pathways vital for their growth and proliferation. It specifically targets biomolecules and biological pathways associated with cancer growth to treat the disease. As it specifically targets and attacks cancer cells, healthy cells are spared, and patients experience fewer side effects.
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is an immunotherapy for blood cancer treatment. This therapy involves obtaining the T-cells from the patient's blood, re-engineering them in the laboratory for them to identify and attack cancer cells, and re-infusing them back into the patient's blood. The technique through which the T-cells are obtained is known as apheresis. Before reinfusion, the patient undergoes chemotherapy to allow the re-engineered T-cells to multiply. Some side effects of CAR T-cell therapy are immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome and cytokine release syndrome.
A bone marrow transplant is an effective treatment for blood cancer. During autologous stem cell transplantation, stem cells are collected from the patient’s marrow. After this, a conditioning regimen is done that involves killing the cancer cells through high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Once the cancer cells are destroyed, the stem cells collected previously are transfused back into the patient’s body. These stem cells reach the bone marrow and start producing healthy blood cells through the process called engraftment. The recovery may take 3-6 months, depending on the type of condition treated and its stage. As an effective blood cancer treatment, autologous stem cell transplant helps patients achieve long-term remission. It is often recommended when other treatments fail to show the desired response. As the stem cells are taken from the patients, there is a relatively lower risk of developing graft-versus-host disease.
Allogeneic stem cell transplantation for blood cancer treatment involves healthy stem cell transfer from a compatible donor to patients with blood cancer. The donor should have a similar genetic makeup as the patient. HLA (human leukocyte antigen) typing is done to find the ideal match for stem cell transplant. Different types of donors for allogeneic transplants include matched donors (siblings), haploidentical donors (parents/children), and unrelated donors. Similar to autologous transplants, before allogeneic stem cell transplants, the patient usually undergoes high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy. As the stem cells are obtained from the other donor, it may carry the risk of graft-versus-host disease.
HCG's advantages for diagnosing and treating blood cancer include its multidisciplinary approach. It also offers advanced diagnostic tools like PET and MRI scans with personalized treatment plans. The medical oncologists, hemato oncologists, and BMT physicians at the HCG Cancer Centre specialize in diagnosing and managing different blood cancers and use innovative therapies, including immunotherapy and stem-cell transplants.
HCG Cancer Centre takes a patient-centered approach to comprehensive care and support throughout the treatment journey, improving the outcome and quality of life in patients diagnosed with blood cancer.
Certain factors can increase one’s risk of developing blood cancer. Having these risk factors does not guarantee blood cancer development; however, it does indicate a higher probability of developing it.
That said, being aware of different risk factors associated with blood cancer may aid in informed decision-making with respect to blood cancer treatment.
The following are the different blood cancer risk factors:
Radiation exposure is a common blood cancer risk factor. The higher the doses, the greater the risk of developing blood cancers, such as leukemia. This is due to DNA damage from previous cancer treatments or exposure during occupations. Such damage can lead to mutations, resulting in the growth of abnormal cells. People who are exposed to radiation have a higher chance of developing blood cancers many years after exposure.
Age plays a major role when determining the high-risk factors for ALL leukemia. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is commonly found in kids, though it is seen among adults as well. Kids who are between the ages of 2 and 5 are at the highest risk of getting this type of cancer.
Exposure to certain hazardous chemicals is another blood cancer risk factor, especially leukemia and lymphoma. Prolonged exposure to some substances, such as benzene in the manufacturing industry, formaldehyde in certain occupations, and certain pesticides in agriculture, can damage the bone marrow and interfere with the normal production of blood cells. These chemicals lead to genetic mutations that lead to uncontrollable growth of abnormal (cancerous) cells. Individuals working with these chemicals should pay extra attention to protecting themselves against prolonged exposure. Also, periodic health monitoring should be conducted to detect any disorders.
Reduced immunity is an important blood cancer risk factor. A weakened system loses immune power and fails to detect or destroy malignant cells. Conditions that cause compromised immunity include HIV/AIDS, autoimmune diseases, and prolonged use of immunosuppressive medication after organ transplantation. Some patients with immunodeficiency are prone to chronic inflammation, which may also lead to cancer development. Therefore, healthy living, timely vaccinations, and regular health check-ups may help reduce blood cancer risk.
Family history is also a significant blood cancer risk factor since some of the genetic predispositions would be linked to an increased risk of conditions like leukemia or lymphoma. People with first-degree relatives diagnosed with blood cancer are considered to have a higher risk due to inherited mutations or exposure to similar risk factors in the environment. Some syndromes, for instance, Li-Fraumeni or Down syndrome, will also raise this risk. Knowing family history will identify many individuals at early stages and result in proactive surveillance.
The risk of blood cancer is also found to be associated with certain inherited genetic disorders. Genetic conditions like Fanconi anemia, Bloom syndrome, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome cause increased susceptibility to leukemia or lymphoma. These conditions are related to defective DNA repair mechanisms or chromosome instability. Many such disorders induce abnormal cell growth and predispose the healthy cells towards malignancy. For inherited syndromes, consultation should include genetic counseling and routine health check-ups to ensure early detection and timely intervention.
The risk of blood cancer is usually higher in elderly patients, and incidence increases with age. Most blood cancers, including leukemia and lymphoma, have been reported in adults as well as the elderly of the age group higher than 60 years. The possible reason for age being a risk factor for blood cancer may be the accumulation of genetic mutations and immune system degradation that occur with aging.
Ethnicity has long been recognized as a significant blood cancer risk factor, as certain ethnic groups are prone to developing certain types of blood cancer. Studies reported a higher risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in White and Hispanic children, while Asian children have a higher risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia. These differences relate to genetic predispositions, environmental exposures, and lifestyle factors.
In this section, let us discuss the solution to a burning question - “How to prevent blood cancer?”
While it is not possible to prevent blood cancer or achieve 100% lymphoma or leukemia prevention, it may be possible to reduce its risk with appropriate preventative measures.
The following are a few measures that may reduce the risk of blood cancer:
Healthy eating can be one of the effective preventative measures against blood cancer. A balanced diet provides all the essential nutrients necessary for immune and cellular functions. Foods rich in fiber and proteins can help maintain the ideal weight, reduce inflammation, and potentially prevent blood cancer. In addition, increased consumption of healthy fats from fish and nuts would likely improve overall well-being and help the immune system identify and attack cancer cells effectively.
Good sleep strengthens the body's immune system and helps it fight abnormal cell development and potentially prevent blood cancer. Inappropriate sleep is linked to increased inflammation and stress, interfering with tissue healing.
Protection from infections is important to prevent blood cancer, especially in immunocompromised patients. Good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with seriously infected people, reduces exposure to pathogens. Immunization also increases the level of immunity. Healthy eating habits and exercise maintain a healthy lifestyle that reduces infection risk and blood cancer risks.
Regular exercise is a good habit that helps prevent blood cancer. Being fit and maintaining a healthy weight is essential, as being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for blood cancers. Exercise also improves the immune system, increases circulation, and reduces inflammation. Moderate exercises include walking, swimming, or cycling.
Chronic stress and negative emotions weaken the immune system and make the body susceptible to various diseases, including cancer. Maintaining emotional health, on the other hand, can improve overall well-being and thereby potentially prevent blood cancer. Improving emotional strength involves practicing mindfulness and meditation, engaging in hobbies, building robust social connections, and seeking help from friends or professionals. These activities are crucial in improving emotional health and enhancing the quality of life, which can help lower the risk of developing blood cancer.
Studies have found that persistent stress and anxiety conditions can weaken a person's immunity. Therefore, maintaining optimum mental health also plays a critical role in reducing blood cancer risk. Those with mental health disruptions may reach out to a therapist to manage them effectively through counseling. Counseling provides an environment for psychological evaluation, developing coping plans, and managing stress effectively. Strength builds up and brings positive thinking about life. Subsequently, a person's health improves, which might lower the risk of developing all cancers, including blood cancer. If you are looking for more information on appropriate measures to reduce blood cancer, you may reach out to the preventive oncology team at your nearby HCG Cancer Centre.
People with a higher risk of developing blood cancer include those who have a family history, inherited genetic disorders, past anticancer therapies, exposure to chemicals or radiation, and a compromised immune system. Additionally, increasing age and ethnicity may also contribute to the increased risk of blood cancer.
Blood cancer, or hematological cancer, refers to the disease that affects the bone marrow and is characterized by uncontrolled division of blood cells. The different types of blood cancer are leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. The symptoms and treatment may vary depending on the type and stage of blood cancer. Survival rates have improved with significant advances in care. Early detection and timely treatment are important. Lastly, following appropriate blood cancer prevention measures may help reduce the risk of this condition.
