Despite advancements in the healthcare system, India recorded 70,000 deaths from blood cancer in the past year, according to the Globocan 2022 Report from the Global Cancer Observatory.
Misinformation can contribute to fear and misunderstanding about the disease.
Let’s debunk some of the most common myths surrounding blood cancer.
What is Blood Cancer?
According to Yale Medicine, blood cancer occurs due to abnormal growth and behaviour of cells. There are three main types, Leukemia, Lymphoma, and Myeloma all these type of blood cancer begins in the bone marrow, the source of blood cell production.
Debunking Blood Cancer Myths
If you haven’t personally experienced or treated blood cancer, it’s important to clear up common myths that may lead to unnecessary worry or delay treatment.
Myth 1: Blood cancer at stage 4 is always fatal
Fact: “Stage 4 blood cancer indicates that the cancer has spread to other organs like the lungs, bones, liver, or bone marrow, making it harder to cure. However, the outcome depends on various factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, type of cancer, and when it was diagnosed,” explains the medical team at BLK-MAX Super Speciality Hospital.
“Cancer that is diagnosed as stage 4 has already spread and cannot be removed entirely. The treatment goal at this stage is to prolong survival and improve the quality of life.”
Myth 2: Blood cancer is genetic
Fact: Blood cancer is not strictly hereditary. According to experts at BLK-MAX, “However, a combination of genetic factors and an unhealthy lifestyle can increase the risk of cancer. If the focus is on adopting healthy lifestyle choices, the genetic risk reduces significantly.”
Myth 3: Blood cancer is incurable
Fact: While blood cancer can be serious, advances in medicine have greatly improved treatment options. BLK-MAX specialists note that “Many new treatment modalities, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and bone marrow transplantation, have shown effective results. If blood cancer is diagnosed early, it can be treated and chances of survival increase.”
Debunking myths surrounding cancer helps ease fears and ensures that individuals get the proper treatment they need. Stay informed about the latest news and treatment options to stay ahead of the disease.
