Blood cancer
Blood cancers, also known as hematologic cancers, occur due to the uncontrollable growth of abnormal blood cells in the bone marrow. This disrupts the production and function of healthy cells that fight infection and produce new blood components.
Types of Blood Cancer
The main types of blood and bone marrow cancer are
Leukemia:
Begins in the blood and bone marrow
Multiple Myeloma:
Affects plasma cells, a type of white blood cell produced in the bone marrow.
Lymphoma:
Develops in the lymphatic system and includes:
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Hodgkin lymphoma: Characterized by the presence of abnormal lymphocytes called Reed-Sternberg cells.
Blood Cancer Risk Factors
The following factors may increase blood cancer risk, including:
- Age (higher risk in older people)
- Sex (more common in males).
- Smoking.
- Contact with toxic chemicals (benzene and formaldehyde)
- Earlier cancer treatment.
- Biological family history.
- Certain Conditions (autoimmune diseases and genetic disorders)
Symptoms of Blood Cancer
Based on type, the symptoms may differ, but the prominent symptoms include:
- Fatigue and shortness of breath
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Recurrent infections
- Bone pain
- Drenching night sweats
- Inflamed liver or spleen
- Persistent fever
- Weight loss
- Easy bruising or bleeding, sometimes appearing as red or purplish skin spots
Experiencing one or more of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer. However, if they persist for more than a few weeks, it's important to consult a doctor.