These Signs Indicate Possible Case of Blood Cancer

Blood cancers, encompassing leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, arise from malfunctions in blood cell production and function. Once considered rare, these cancers are now increasingly common and represent a growing global health concern. The Globocan 2022 report highlights the severity of this issue, revealing that over 70,000 people in India alone succumbed to blood cancers in the past year. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for early detection and awareness of symptoms.

Common symptoms of blood cancer  

Unexplained fatigue: Persistent tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest can be an early indicator of blood cancer.

Frequent infections: Recurrent colds, flu, or other infections might signal a weakened immune system, often associated with blood cancer.

Easy bruising or bleeding: Unusual bruises or cuts that bleed longer than normal may suggest issues with blood cell production.

Bone or joint pain: Leukaemia can cause abnormal cells to infiltrate the bone marrow, leading to pain in the bones or joints.

Swollen lymph nodes: Painless swelling in areas like the neck, armpits, or groin could be a sign of lymphoma.

Unexplained weight loss: This could indicate various cancers, including those of the blood.

Night sweats: Profuse sweating during sleep, or "drenching" sweats, is often seen in some types of lymphoma.

Abdominal discomfort: Feeling of fullness or discomfort in the upper left abdomen may indicate spleen enlargement, associated with certain blood cancers.

Persistent fever: Ongoing or recurrent fevers can be a symptom of blood cancer.

Skin changes: Red rashes and itchy skin might be linked to blood cancer.

Breathlessness and paleness: These symptoms can also be indicative of blood-related cancers.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to get a peripheral blood smear and complete blood count (CBC) to aid in early diagnosis. Awareness and prompt medical attention are key to improving outcomes in blood cancer cases.