Blood cancer, which is also known as Leukemia, is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues in our body. Some of these tissues include the lymphatic system and the bone marrow. According to cancer hospitals in Delhi and surrounding areas, blood cancer affects the white blood cells.
White blood cells are produced by the body to fight infections. They grow and divide in accordance with the needs of the body. However, in patients suffering from Leukemia, abnormal white blood cells are produced, and they do not function properly.
Personal Health Conditions and Medical History
Previous Cancer Treatments
Chemotherapy and radiation used for treating other cancers can sometimes lead to blood cancers later. These treatments damage the DNA in blood cells, which over time may turn malignant. It’s a tough balancing act between curing one disease and avoiding another.
Immune System Disorders
If your immune system doesn’t work properly, your chances of developing blood cancer rise. Conditions like autoimmune diseases or immune deficiencies weaken your ability to fight abnormal cell growth.
Infections
Certain viruses can trigger blood cancers. Human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV-1) and Epstein-Barr virus are linked to leukemia and lymphoma. They can cause constant immune activation, increasing mutation chances.
Symptoms
Blood cancer also known as leukemia lymphoma or myeloma can show several signs that help us understand that something might be wrong. These symptoms can vary from person to person but there are some common ones that many people may experience. One of the first signs of blood cancer is feeling very tired or weak. People might notice that they get tired more easily than before or feel worn out even after resting.
People with blood cancer may also notice unusual bruising or bleeding. This happens because the blood doesn’t clot properly when there aren’t enough healthy platelets. Someone might get bruises from minor bumps or have nosebleeds and bleeding gums without much cause. Weight loss is another symptom that can occur. Some individuals may lose weight without trying which can be confusing and concerning. Additionally they might experience a loss of appetite feeling less interested in food than they usually do.
Swelling in the lymph nodes especially in the neck armpits or groin can be a sign of lymphoma a type of blood cancer. These swollen areas might feel firm and can sometimes be painful.
Following are the Symptoms of Leukemia.
- Fever or chills
- Constant weakness
- Sudden weight loss
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Recurrent nosebleeds
- Enlarged liver or spleen
- Bone pain or tenderness
- Easy bleeding or bruising
- Tiny red spots on your skin
- Frequent or severe infections
- Excessive sweating
More often than not, people tend to overlook symptoms of blood cancer as common cold or flu. If you face any persistent health issues, you must contact your doctor immediately.
Causes of Blood Cancer
Blood cancers like leukemia affect millions worldwide. They are serious illnesses that can change lives in an instant. Understanding what leads to these diseases helps us stay ahead. Knowing the causes can lead to better prevention, early detection, and smarter treatment choices. This article explores the genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors linked to blood cancer development.
According to blood cancer treatment experts, the exact reasons behind Leukemia are not known but is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Usually, it is considered to take place when blood cells undergo mutation in their DNA.
As a result, cells continue to grow and multiply more rapidly than usual when healthy cells usually die out. This gives rise to symptoms of blood cancer.
Overview of Blood Cancers
Blood cancers develop in cells that make up our blood and immune system. Leukemia is one type, but other types include lymphoma and myeloma. These diseases start in areas like the bone marrow, where blood cells are made, or the lymphatic system, which filters lymph fluid. Unlike solid tumors, blood cancers are spread throughout the blood and lymph nodes.
Blood Cancer Classification
Cancer Hospitals in Delhi and surrounding areas classify blood cancer into the following categories, Based on the rate of progression of Leukemia.
Acute Leukemia – In this case, the abnormal blood cells are not able to carry out their expected functions and also multiply rapidly. This is why the disease worsens quickly. Patients of Acute Leukemia need to be treated timely and aggressively.
Acute leukemia is a type of cancer that originates in the bone marrow and leads to the rapid production of abnormal white blood cells. These cells interfere with the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding. The disease is categorized into two main types: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), each with distinct characteristics and treatment approaches. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes, as the aggressive nature of acute leukemia necessitates immediate medical intervention.
Chronic Leukemia – There are many varieties of Chronic Leukemia. In some patients, too many cells are formed, while in other too few are produced. Here, the blood cells replicate at a much slower rate. This is why almost every blood cancer treatment centre claims that Chronic Leukemia can remain undiagnosed for many years.
This condition typically progresses slowly, allowing individuals to live with it for years without significant symptoms. There are two main types: chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), each with distinct characteristics and treatment approaches. Diagnosis often involves blood tests and bone marrow examinations, while treatment options may include targeted therapies, chemotherapy, and, in some cases, stem cell transplants. Early detection and ongoing management are crucial for improving outcomes and maintaining quality of life for those affected.
Based on the type of white blood cells Affected
Lymphocytic Leukemia – This form for Leukemia affects the lymphatic tissues which are responsible for making up the immune system.
This condition can disrupt normal blood cell function, leading to various health complications. There are two main forms: acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), which progresses rapidly, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), which develops more slowly. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, bone marrow examinations, and imaging studies, while treatment options may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and, in some cases, stem cell transplantation.
Myelogenous Leukemia – This form of Leukemia affects the myeloid cells which are responsible for forming platelets, red and white blood cells.
Myelogenous leukemia, also known as acute myeloid leukemia (AML), is a type of cancer that originates in the bone marrow and affects the production of blood cells. This condition is characterized by the rapid proliferation of myeloid cells, which can interfere with the normal functioning of the blood and immune system. Symptoms may include fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding, often leading to a diagnosis through blood tests or bone marrow examination. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and sometimes stem cell transplantation, aiming to achieve remission and restore healthy blood cell production.
Treatments
There are a number of treatment options available for Leukemia. The approach to be used depends on various factors including the patient’s age, health, and whether the Leukemia cells have spread to the cerebrospinal fluid or not.
Some of the prominent treatment options are as follows.
1. Chemotherapy
Refers to the administration of drugs which kill the cancer cells. This is done orally, using a catheter or intravenously. This approach can be administered in various forms, including intravenous infusions or oral medications, depending on the specific type of cancer and its stage. While chemotherapy is effective in shrinking tumors and preventing cancer from spreading, it often comes with a range of side effects due to its impact on healthy cells. Patients undergoing chemotherapy may experience fatigue, nausea, and changes in appetite, among other symptoms. Despite these challenges, chemotherapy remains a cornerstone in cancer treatment, often used in conjunction with other therapies to enhance overall effectiveness.
2. Targeted Therapy
These are drugs which affect any particular attribute of the rapidly growing cells rather than killing them. Targeted therapy is a form of treatment that focuses on specific molecular targets associated with cancer. By identifying and attacking these unique characteristics of cancer cells, targeted therapies aim to minimize damage to healthy cells, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of treatment while reducing side effects. This approach often involves the use of drugs that interfere with the growth and spread of cancer by blocking the action of certain proteins or genes. As research advances, targeted therapies continue to evolve, offering new hope for patients with various types of cancer.
3. Radiation Therapy
In this case, high-energy radiation is to target cancer cells. This is especially useful when the cancer cells have spread to the brain or spleen. This approach can be employed as a primary treatment or in conjunction with other therapies, such as surgery or chemotherapy, to enhance overall effectiveness. The procedure works by damaging the DNA of cancerous cells, inhibiting their ability to grow and multiply. While radiation therapy can be highly effective, it may also lead to side effects, which vary depending on the treatment area and individual patient factors. Careful planning and monitoring are essential to maximize the benefits while minimizing potential risks.
Conclusion
Early detection, healthy habits, and avoiding dangerous exposures can significantly lower your chances. Stay informed, get regular check-ups, and consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice. Your proactive choices can make a real difference in preventing blood cancers.
