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Blood Cancer: A Silent Killer
Blood cancer, also known as hematological cancer, affects the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. It disrupts the production and functioning of blood cells, leading to various serious complications.
Types of Blood Cancer
Blood cancer mainly occurs in three types:
- Leukemia: This is a type of cancer in which the production of red and white blood cells increases abnormally, raising the risk of anemia and infections. Leukemia can be acute (rapid onset) or chronic (slow progressing).
- Lymphoma: This cancer affects the lymphatic system, weakening the body’s immune system. The two main types are Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
- Myeloma: This is a cancer of the plasma cells, which hinders antibody production and reduces the body’s immune defense.
Causes of Blood Cancer
The exact cause of blood cancer is not fully understood, but certain factors can increase the risk, such as:
- Genetic or hereditary factors
- Exposure to radiation or chemicals
- Viral infections (e.g., HTLV-1)
- Weakened immune system
Symptoms of Blood Cancer
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Easy bruising and slow healing of wounds
- Abnormal bleeding or hemorrhage
- Pain in bones and joints
- Frequent fever or infections
- Swollen lymph nodes
Treatment and Prevention
The treatment of blood cancer depends on its type and stage. Common treatment methods include:
- Chemotherapy: Using drugs to destroy cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: Destroying cancer cells with high-energy radiation.
- Bone marrow transplantation: Replacing the patient’s affected bone marrow.
- Immunotherapy: Boosting the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.
Although blood cancer is a life-threatening disease, advances in modern medicine make it possible to control. Regular health checkups, a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding risk factors are key ways to prevent this disease. Awareness and timely treatment can save lives.
Author:
Senior Consultant & Coordinator
Haematology & Stem Cell Transplant
Evercare Hospital Dhaka