Blood cancer - definition and concept
Cancerous formation can attack any organic system of the human physiology. As part of blood cancer, the rapidly multiplying cancerous cells are found attacking the different aspects of the circulatory system. Besides blood and the lymphatic system; the bone marrow can also be the focus of attack.
Blood cancer - its kinds and types
Primarily, there are three basic types of blood cancer. Each of the variety may also include several variations, but in general this cancer is categorized into the following kinds
  1. Leukemia- With spurt in the multiplicity of cancerous cells affecting either the marrow or the blood; the ability of the circulatory system to produce blood is severely impaired with.
  2. Lymphoma- The cancerous formation affecting the lymphocytes is referred to as the lymphoma. Lymphocytes are one of the varieties of white blood corpuscles.
  3. Myeloma- As part of Myeloma, the plasma (another variety of WBC) is affected by the cancerous formation.
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Symptoms of blood cancer
Symptoms of leukemia.
Leukemia marked by an acute destruction of health sustaining red blood cells includes the symptoms of anemia, weakness and extreme fatigue. Consequently one affected by it is likely to sweat and come under bouts of breath shortness in course of performing day to day activities of the regular kind. Vulnerability to infection and swelling of the lymph nodes are some of the other fallouts of Leukemia. Blood tests are likely to present higher counts of white blood corpuscles.
Leukemia can be chronic or acute. A person afflicted with the latter type may not exhibit any of these symptoms. On the other hand, in leukemia of the acute type, the symptoms are likely to manifest with rapid intensity.
Symptoms pertaining to lymphoma.
One of the most common symptoms of lymphoma includes swollen lymphatic node because this cancer essentially revolves around the lymphatic cells. The swelling is mostly painless in nature. Some of the other indications include loss of weight and appetite, fever, sudden bouts of chill and night sweating.
Certain variety of leukemia is also associated with coughing, fatigue, fullness of abdomen and extreme fatigue. Itching, nausea and food aversion may also set in.
Symptoms pertaining to myeloma.
The initial stage may well go free of symptoms. But with the gradual prognosis of the disease, there ought to be generic feel of fatigue, painful back, susceptibility to infection, breath shortness, bouts of numbness and that of chest pain. Kidney problems are likely to develop on account of myeloma. Blood tests taken are likely to indicate abnormal clusters of plasma cells.
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The different stages of blood cancer
Depends on the rate of metastasis.
There are different yards sticks to distinguish blood cancer into different stages according to the symptoms of prognosis and rate of metastasis.
Four different phases of chronic leukemia.
The first phase is marked by an enlarged presence of lymph nodes. This happens owing to the spurt in the count of lymphocytes. The risk level at this stage is intermediate because at this stage of prognosis, the cancer is yet to spread and affect other physical organs.
The second stage is marked by the enlarged presence of spleen as well as liver; in addition to that of the lymph nodes. If not both the organs, at least one of them apart from lymph nodes is affected at the second stage. There is a massive swing in the growth of lymphocytes. The risk level is still moderate.
The next stage or the third stage is marked by the development of anemia. The aforementioned organs are still likely to remain swollen. In general two or more organs are likely to be affected at the third stage of cancerous development.
The fourth and last phase is marked by a drastic fall in the rate of blood platelets. In the last stage the cancerous development can also affect lungs besides the ones already affected. Anemia is likely to be more acute. Both the third as well as the last phase are more risky from the viewpoint of the sufferer.
Curability of blood cancer and the stages involved
The latest piece of news with regard to the curability of blood cancer.
According, to one of the most recent findings, researchers have come up with a curative alternative to blood cancer. The medication seeks to block the release of irregular enzymes accountable for the metastasis of blood cancer. Surfeit of protein accountable for the enlargement and increase of cancerous cells are likely to be blocked as well by the researched medication.
Even until some years back, it couldn't be categorically affirmed as to the curable deals of blood cancer. But according to the practitioners and faculty involved in research oriented studies, the first stage of blood cancer responded better to the deals of curability more than the others.
To go by the practitioners and advocates of alternate therapeutic measures to cancer cure, blood cancer is curable even in its second and the third stages.
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Natural treatment of blood cancer
Some of the common avenues of treatment.
Other than chemo and radiotherapy, the conventional modes of treatment for blood cancer include attempts at stem cells and bone marrow transplantations.
Herbal deals in leukemia/blood cancer cure.
Certain herbs, at least two varieties of herbs known by the names of 'Garcinia Mangostana' and 'xanothenes' have been found to be effective with respect of leukemia. The herbs and compounds based on them have reflected intrinsic potential of growth inhibiting features.
Importance of antioxidants.
It has commonly been observed that people particularly the kids undergoing treatment for blood cancer, respond better to curative measures if there isn't a drastic cut in the intensity of antioxidants. So, even with allopathic remedial options, it is important to go for a diet rich in greens and antioxidants, in order to add to the supportive base of the treatment.
Children oriented to a balanced diet with an adequate supply of greens and raw fruits are less likely to develop blood cancer/leukemia.
What demography is more prone to blood cancer?
It may run in the family.
Heredity/family history is one of the likely factors making one more prone to blood cancer than those without family history.
Exposure to radiation and carcinogenic chemicals.
These uncalled for exposures also add to the risk of developing blood cancer. Smoking is another incentive.
HIV Infection.
Those infected by HIV all come under the risky demography prone to blood cancer.
Age group and blood cancer.
Though it is probable amongst different age groups, the recently taken statistics point to the increased possibility amongst the older age groups.
Race and blood cancer.
It has also been observed that whites are more susceptible to leukemia/blood cancer.
Prevention of blood cancer
Healthy lifestyle with specialized focus on balanced diet.
In fact, health of nutrition and that of living can go a long way in combating blood cancer. Instead of freaking out on dollops of sugar and that of dressed meat items, one ideally needs to fall back on the organic greens.
Avoiding the fad for junk food and going back on a nutritious platter with abundance of green can add to the prevention of blood cancer.
Dressed meat/fish items have been identified as one of the incentives to blood cancer. So, they need to be avoided as well.
Trans or saturated fat is congenial to the development of this dreaded disease. So together with dressed items and that of starch, one needs to go low in this category as well.
Eat, drink and breathe in fresh air.
It is also important to stay away from the destructive sway of herbicides and chemicals. There are needs to minimize the risky bouts of radiation as it is another point of abetment.
Besides depending on a judicious blend of diet and rest, regularized regimen of exercise with abundant exposure to the unpolluted deals of natural fresh is another incentive to blood cancer prevention. Regularized schedule of exercising over a bare minimum period of half an hour can be pretty effective.
Due safety measures to be adopted.
People working in nuclear, chemical or dye making plants belong to the risk category of blood cancer. Thus, they need to opt for safety measures so that the exposure to the deals of radiation and that of chemicals are minimized.
Adding to the strength of the immunological system.
It also pays because people immunologically strong are better capacitate in resisting diseases including blood cancer.
Survival rate in blood cancer-Statistical figures
Statistical orientation is given to the inputs gathered over a given period of time. The figures are gathered by different organizations According to a figure gathered by 'Leukemia and Lymphoma Society', in the year 2011 around 1,012,533 people have been found recovering from different stages of blood cancer. It includes all the three types of blood cancer. The statistical count relates to the people of U.S.A
Leukemia
Leukemia is a type of cancer found in your blood and bone marrow and is caused by the rapid production of abnormal white blood cells. These abnormal white blood cells are not able to fight infection and impair the ability of the bone marrow to produce red blood cells and platelets.
Leukemia can be either acute or chronic. Chronic leukemia progresses more slowly than acute leukemia, which requires immediate treatment. Leukemia is also classified as lymphocytic or myelogenous. Lymphocytic leukemia refers to abnormal cell growth in the marrow cells that become lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that plays a role in the immune system. In myelogenous leukemia, abnormal cell growth occurs in the marrow cells that mature into red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. There are four broad classifications of leukemia:
  • Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL)
  • Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)
  • Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
  • Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)
Leukemia occurs in both adults and children. ALL is the most common form of childhood leukemia, and AML is the second most common. Decades of research have led to vastly improved outcomes for children diagnosed with ALL. The two most common adult leukemias are AML and CLL.
Am I at Risk?
Although experts are uncertain about the causes of leukemia, they have identified several risk factors that include the following:
  • Exposure to high levels of radiation
  • Repeated exposure to certain chemicals (for example, benzene)
  • Chemotherapy
  • Down Syndrome
  • A strong family history of leukemia
Symptoms vary depending on the type and stage of leukemia, but they can include the following:
  • Fever, chills, night sweats and other flu-like symptoms
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Swollen or bleeding gums
  • Headaches
  • Enlarged liver and spleen
  • Swollen tonsils
  • Bone pain
  • Paleness
  • Pinhead-size red spots on the skin
  • Weight loss
How Is Leukemia Treated?
Your doctor will conduct a complete blood count (CBC) to determine if you have leukemia. This test will reveal if you have leukemic cells, or abnormal levels of white blood cells; both are signs of leukemia. Abnormally low red blood cell or platelet counts can also indicate leukemia. If you test positive for leukemia, your doctor will perform a biopsy of your bone marrow to determine which type you have.
Treatment depends on your age, general health, and type of leukemia. You might receive a combination of treatments that could include chemotherapy, biological therapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation. Patients with acute leukemia often undergo chemotherapy because this type of treatment targets fast-dividing cells. Many acute leukemia patients have responded successfully to treatment. On the other hand, because the cells divide more slowly in chronic leukemia, it is better treated with targeted therapies that attack slowly dividing cells as opposed to traditional chemotherapy that targets rapidly dividing cells.
For some patients, participating in a clinical trial provides access to experimental therapies. If you are diagnosed with leukemia, talk with your doctor about whether joining a clinical trial is right for you.
Is Leukemia Preventable?
Because the cause of leukemia remains unknown, there is no certain way to prevent it. However, avoiding exposure to solvents, such as benzene and toluene, and unnecessary exposure to x-rays is generally good practice. If you think you may be exhibiting signs of leukemia, being aware of the risk factors and symptoms and talking with your doctor are critical to early diagnosis and treatment. It is especially important for people who have a family history of leukemia to be aware of symptoms and share their family medical history with their doctors.
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: A Patient's Journey
Where Can I Find More Information?
If you find that you are interested in learning more about blood diseases and disorders, here are a few other resources that may be of some help:
Articles From Hematology, the ASH Education Program Book
The American Society of Hematology (ASH) Education Book, updated yearly by experts in the field, is a collection of articles about the current treatment options available to patients. The articles are categorized here by disease type. If you are interested in learning more about a particular blood disease, we encourage you to share and discuss these articles with your doctor.
Results of Clinical Studies Published in Blood
Search Blood, the official journal of ASH, for the results of the latest blood research. While recent articles generally require a subscriber login, patients interested in viewing an access-controlled article in Blood may obtain a copy by e-mailing a request to the Blood Publishing Office.
Other Resources
This section includes a list of Web links to patient groups and other organizations that provide information.
Lymphoma
About half of the blood cancers that occur each year are lymphomas, or cancers of the lymphatic system. This system – composed of lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, groin, chest, and abdomen – removes excess fluids from your body and produces immune cells. Abnormal lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights infection, become lymphoma cells, which multiply and collect in your lymph nodes. Over time, these cancerous cells impair your immune system.
Lymphomas are divided into two categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. About 12 percent of people with lymphoma have Hodgkin lymphoma. Because of breakthrough research, this once fatal diagnosis has been transformed into a curable condition. Most non-Hodgkin lymphomas are B-cell lymphomas, and either grow quickly (high-grade) or slowly (low-grade). There are 14 types of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas. The rest are T-cell lymphomas, named after a different cancerous white blood cell, or lymphocyte.
How Lymphoma Develops

Many lymphoma patients are able to lead active lives as they receive treatment for their symptoms and are monitored by their doctors.
Am I at Risk?
The exact causes of lymphoma remain unknown; however, the following factors increase your risk of developing the disease:
  • Older age
  • Male
  • Caucasian
  • Having an autoimmune disease
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Diet high in meats and fat
  • Being exposed to certain pesticides
Symptoms of lymphoma include the following:
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
  • Fever
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Sweating
  • Difficulty breathing or chest pain
  • Itchy skin
  • Rash
How is Lymphoma Treated?
Your doctor will perform a lymph node biopsy to diagnose lymphoma. Additional tests are then conducted to determine the stage (extent) of the lymphoma including blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and imaging tests, such as a CT scan or PET scan. Imaging tests show whether the lymphoma has spread to other parts of your body, like the spleen and lungs. Decisions about treatment are then determined by your doctor, who will consider your age, general health, and stage and type of lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma is one of the most curable types of cancer.
Treatment options include the following:
For some patients, participating in a clinical trial provides access to experimental therapies. If you are diagnosed with lymphoma, talk with your doctor about whether joining a clinical trial is right for you.
Is Lymphoma Preventable?
Because the cause of lymphoma remains unknown, there is no real way to prevent it. However, if you think you may be exhibiting signs of lymphoma, being aware of the risk factors and symptoms and talking with your doctor are critical to early diagnosis and treatment. It is especially important if you have a family history of lymphoma to look out for symptoms and share your family medical history with your doctor.
If you suspect that you have or are at risk for lymphoma, talk with your doctor about detection and treatment. Depending on your physical condition, genetics, and medical history, you may be referred to a hematologist, a doctor who specializes in blood conditions.
Lymphoma: A Patient's Journey
Where Can I Find More Information?
If you find that you are interested in learning more about blood diseases and disorders, here are a few other resources that may be of some help:
Articles From Hematology, the ASH Education Program Book
The American Society of Hematology (ASH) Education Book, updated yearly by experts in the field, is a collection of articles about the current treatment options available to patients. The articles are categorized here by disease type. If you are interested in learning more about a particular blood disease, we encourage you to share and discuss these articles with your doctor.
Results of Clinical Studies Published in Blood
Search Blood, the official journal of ASH, for the results of the latest blood research. While recent articles generally require a subscriber login, patients interested in viewing an access-controlled article in Blood may obtain a copy by e-mailing a request to the Blood Publishing Office.
Other Resources
This section includes a list of Web links to patient groups and other organizations that provide information.
Myeloma
Myeloma is cancer of the plasma cells. Plasma cells are white blood cells that produce disease- and infection-fighting antibodies in your body. Myeloma cells prevent the normal production of antibodies, leaving your body’s immune system weakened and susceptible to infection. The multiplication of myeloma cells also interferes with the normal production and function of red and white blood cells. An abnormally high amount of these dysfunctional antibodies in the bloodstream can cause kidney damage. Additionally, the myeloma cells commonly produce substances that cause bone destruction, leading to bone pain and/or fractures.
Myeloma cells are produced in the bone marrow, the soft tissue inside your bones. Sometimes myeloma cells will travel through your blood stream and collect in other bones in your body. Because myeloma frequently occurs at many sites in the bone marrow, it is often referred to as multiple myeloma.
Am I at Risk?
Signs and symptoms of myeloma include the following:
  • Hypercalcemia (excessive calcium in the blood)
  • Anemia (shortage or reduced function of red blood cells)
  • Renal damage (kidney failure)
  • Susceptibility to infection
  • Osteoporosis, bone pain, bone swelling or fracture
  • High protein levels in the blood and/or urine
  • Weight loss
Myeloma occurs more frequently in the following populations:
  • African-American
  • Over the age of 50
  • Male
  • Obese
  • Exposed to radiation
  • Work in petroleum-related industries
How Is Myeloma Treated?
If you have myeloma, there are many treatment options available that slow the growth of the myeloma cells and help ease bone pain, fatigue, and other symptoms associated with the disease. The type of treatment depends on your health and the type and stage of myeloma.
Treatment options for myeloma include the following:
For some patients, participating in a clinical trial provides access to experimental therapies. If you are diagnosed with myeloma, talk with your doctor about whether joining a clinical trial is right for you.
Is Myeloma Preventable?
Because doctors have yet to pinpoint what causes myeloma, there is no certain way to prevent it. Be aware of the risks and symptoms, especially if you have a family history of myeloma.
If you are experiencing symptoms or are at risk for myeloma, talk with your doctor about detection and treatment. Depending on your physical condition, genetics, and medical history, you may be referred to a hematologist, a doctor who specializes in blood conditions.
Where Can I Find More Information?
If you find that you are interested in learning more about blood diseases and disorders, here are a few other resources that may be of some help:
Articles From Hematology, the ASH Education Program Book
The American Society of Hematology (ASH) Education Book, updated yearly by experts in the field, is a collection of articles about the current treatment options available to patients. The articles are categorized here by disease type. If you are interested in learning more about a particular blood disease, we encourage you to share and discuss these articles with your doctor.
Results of Clinical Studies Published in Blood
Search Blood, the official journal of ASH, for the results of the latest blood research. While recent articles generally require a subscriber login, patients interested in viewing an access-controlled article in Blood may obtain a copy by e-mailing a request to the Blood Publishing Office.
Other Resources
This section includes a list of Web links to patient groups and other organizations that provide information.

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