Blood cancer awareness month: Myths about this disease you need to stop believing

September month is dedicated to honoring those who have survived blood cancer and also aims at creating awareness about the disease. An important part of cancer treatment is awareness and access to the right information. Very often we come across myths around major diseases which delay the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. We spoke to Dr. Niti Krishna Raizada, Senior Director, Medical Oncology & Hemato-Oncology, Fortis Hospitals, Richmond Road, Bangalore to shed light on different myths and facts about blood cancer.

“There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding blood cancer, also known as hematologic cancer. It's essential to dispel these myths to promote accurate understanding and provide support for individuals affected by these diseases. Here are some common myths and the facts that debunk them,” says Dr. Raizada.

Fact: Blood cancer is not contagious. It cannot spread from person to person through casual contact or close proximity. Blood cancers, like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, develop due to genetic mutations in blood cells or bone marrow and are mostly not caused by bacteria, viruses, or other infectious agents.

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Fact: While blood cancer is common in older adults, it can affect people of all ages, including children and young adults. Certain types of blood cancer, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), are more prevalent in children, while others, like chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), are more common in older individuals. However, anyone can be at risk.

Fact: Blood cancer symptoms can vary widely. Some symptoms of blood cancer may include fatigue, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, frequent infections, easy bruising, and swollen lymph nodes. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions and it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Fact: While blood cancer can be a serious and life-threatening disease, advances in research and treatment have greatly improved the prognosis for many patients. Many individuals with blood cancer can achieve long-term remission or even be cured. Early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and ongoing medical care are crucial for improving outcomes.

Fact: There are several different types of blood cancer, each with its own subtypes and characteristics. Common types include leukemia (which affects the blood and bone marrow), lymphoma (which affects the lymphatic system), and myeloma (which affects plasma cells in the bone marrow). Treatment and prognosis can vary significantly depending on the specific type and subtype of blood cancer.

Fact: There is no known way to prevent blood cancer because it is often caused by genetic mutations that may occur spontaneously. However, certain risk factors, such as exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, can increase the risk of developing blood cancer. Avoiding known risk factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing some cancers in general.

Fact: Blood donation does not cause blood cancer. In fact, donating blood is a vital and life-saving activity that helps patients with various medical conditions, including those with blood cancer, receive necessary blood products for treatment and recovery.

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Fact: While a healthy diet is important for overall health and may support cancer patients during treatment, there is no specific food or diet that can cure blood cancer. Cancer treatment typically involves a combination of therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy and stem cell transplantation. Choice of therapy depends on the type of blood cancer and whether it is acute or chronic, treatment naïve or recurrent. Newer therapies like Immunotherapy and CAR-T cells are also available in suitable cases.

Fact: There is no reason why chemotherapy should cause pain unless the IV cannulation is improper. While hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy, it doesn't happen to everyone, and it is not permanent.

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Fact: Donating stem cells or bone marrow can be uncomfortable, but it is generally not extremely painful. Donors are carefully screened and prepared for the procedure, and the risks are relatively low compared to the potential benefits of saving a life.