Blood Cancer Awareness Month: Debunking Common Misconceptions About Hematologic Cancer

September Marks Blood Cancer Awareness Month
September is a dedicated month for honoring survivors of blood cancer and raising awareness about this disease. Cancer treatment heavily relies on accurate knowledge and access to reliable information. Frequently, myths surrounding major illnesses hinder timely diagnosis and treatment. To shed light on these myths and present factual information about blood cancer, we consulted with Dr. Niti Krishna Raizada, Senior Director of Medical Oncology & Hemato-Oncology at Fortis Hospitals, Richmond Road, Bangalore.

Dr. Raizada emphasizes, "Numerous myths and misconceptions surround blood cancer, also referred to as hematologic cancer. It is imperative to dispel these myths to foster precise understanding and provide support to individuals grappling with these conditions. Here are some common myths along with the corresponding facts."

1. Myth: Blood Cancer is Contagious
Fact: Blood cancer is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through casual contact or close proximity. Hematologic cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, originate from genetic mutations in blood cells or bone marrow and are not primarily caused by bacteria, viruses, or other infectious agents.

2. Myth: Only Older People Develop Blood Cancer
Fact: While blood cancer is more common in older adults, it can affect individuals of all age groups, including children and young adults. Specific types of blood cancer, like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), are more prevalent in children, while others, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), are more frequently diagnosed in older individuals. However, everyone is susceptible.

3. Myth: Blood Cancer Always Presents Visible Symptoms
Fact: Blood cancer symptoms can vary significantly. Common symptoms may include fatigue, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, frequent infections, easy bruising, and swollen lymph nodes. Nevertheless, these symptoms can also be indicative of other medical conditions, emphasizing the need to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

4. Myth: Blood Cancer is Invariably Fatal
Fact: While blood cancer can be a serious and life-threatening illness, advancements in research and treatment have substantially improved the prognosis for many patients. Numerous individuals with blood cancer can achieve long-term remission or even complete recovery. Timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and consistent medical care are pivotal in enhancing outcomes.

5. Myth: All Blood Cancers are Alike
Fact: Blood cancer encompasses several distinct types, each characterized by unique subtypes and attributes. Common categories include leukemia (affecting blood and bone marrow), lymphoma (affecting the lymphatic system), and myeloma (involving plasma cells in the bone marrow). Treatment approaches and prognoses significantly differ based on the specific type and subtype of blood cancer.

6. Myth: Blood Cancer Can Be Prevented
Fact: Currently, there is no known method for preventing blood cancer, as it typically arises from spontaneous genetic mutations. Nevertheless, certain risk factors, such as exposure to specific chemicals or radiation, can heighten the risk of developing blood cancer. Reducing exposure to recognized risk factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle may mitigate the overall risk of developing various cancers.

7. Myth: Blood Donation Causes Blood Cancer
Fact: Blood donation does not cause blood cancer. In reality, blood donation is a critical and life-saving activity that aids patients with various medical conditions, including those battling blood cancer, by providing essential blood products for treatment and recovery.

8. Myth: Dietary Choices Can Cure Blood Cancer
Fact: Although maintaining a healthy diet is essential for overall well-being and may complement cancer treatment, there is no specific food or diet capable of curing blood cancer. Typically, cancer treatment involves a combination of therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation. The choice of therapy depends on the type of blood cancer, its nature (acute or chronic), and whether it is a primary or recurrent case. In some suitable instances, newer therapies like Immunotherapy and CAR-T cells are also available.

9. Myth: Chemotherapy Is Excruciatingly Painful and Causes Permanent Hair Loss
Fact: Chemotherapy should not be inherently painful unless there are issues with the intravenous cannulation. While hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy, it is not experienced by everyone, and it is not permanent.

10. Myth: Stem Cell or Bone Marrow Donation Is Excruciatingly Painful and Dangerous
Fact: Donating stem cells or bone marrow may cause discomfort, but it is not typically excruciatingly painful. Donors undergo thorough screening and preparation for the procedure, with relatively low risks compared to the potential benefit of saving a life.