Blood Cancer
Blood cancer typically originates in the bone marrow, the body’s blood cell factory. These types of cancers, also referred to as hematologic tumors, occur when abnormal blood cells start multiplying rapidly, disrupting the normal functions of healthy blood cells, such as fighting off infections and producing new blood cells.
Breast Cancer
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a prevalent form of cancer globally, affecting approximately one in eight women during their lifetime. It can manifest in one or both breasts and may occur in various parts of the breast tissue. Breast cancer is characterized by abnormal cell growth within the breast, which has the potential to spread to surrounding tissues. While the majority of cases occur in women, it’s important to note that men can also develop breast cancer, albeit less frequently.
Blood Cancer
What is blood cancer?
Blood cancer typically originates in the bone marrow, the body’s blood cell factory. These types of cancers, also referred to as hematologic tumors, occur when abnormal blood cells start multiplying rapidly, disrupting the normal functions of healthy blood cells, such as fighting off infections and producing new blood cells.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Blood malignancies, including blood cancers, are primarily triggered by mutations occurring in the genetic makeup, or DNA, of blood cells.
Key Risk Factors
- Advancing Age: The likelihood of developing blood cancer increases as individuals grow older.
- Gender Disparity: Males tend to face a higher risk compared to females.
- Environmental Exposures: Exposure to industrial chemicals like benzene and certain other substances can elevate the risk.
- Smoking: Tobacco use is linked to an increased susceptibility to blood cancers.
- Previous Cancer Treatment: Individuals who have undergone cancer treatment in the past may have a heightened risk.
- Radiation Exposure: High levels of exposure to radiation can also contribute to the development of blood malignancies.
- Personal Medical History: Having experienced other types of blood malignancies in the past can increase susceptibility.
Key Risk Factors
- Advancing Age: The likelihood of developing blood cancer increases as individuals grow older.
- Gender Disparity: Males tend to face a higher risk compared to females.
- Environmental Exposures: Exposure to industrial chemicals like benzene and certain other substances can elevate the risk.
- Smoking: Tobacco use is linked to an increased susceptibility to blood cancers.
- Previous Cancer Treatment: Individuals who have undergone cancer treatment in the past may have a heightened risk.
- Radiation Exposure: High levels of exposure to radiation can also contribute to the development of blood malignancies.
- Personal Medical History: Having experienced other types of blood malignancies in the past can increase susceptibility.
Preventive Measures
- Limit Radiation Exposure: Minimize exposure to sources of radiation whenever possible.
- Environmental Awareness: Avoid contact with harmful substances such as benzene and insecticides.
- Tobacco Avoidance: Refrain from using any form of tobacco products.
- Balanced Diet: Maintain a healthy and well-rounded diet to support overall health.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to promote fitness and well-being.
Preventive Measures
- Limit Radiation Exposure: Minimize exposure to sources of radiation whenever possible.
- Environmental Awareness: Avoid contact with harmful substances such as benzene and insecticides.
- Tobacco Avoidance: Refrain from using any form of tobacco products.
- Balanced Diet: Maintain a healthy and well-rounded diet to support overall health.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to promote fitness and well-being.
Screening for Blood Cancer
While there isn’t a specific screening test recommended for the diagnosis of blood cancer, it’s advisable to undergo an annual hemogram. This routine blood test helps in detecting any abnormalities within the blood cell counts, which may warrant further investigation for potential signs of blood cancer.
Symptoms & Signs
- Chest pain or discomfort upon coughing, or dragging abdominal pain, possibly indicating the accumulation of abnormal blood cells in the spleen.
- Chills or fever, often due to a deficiency in white blood cells, leading to increased susceptibility to infections.
- Unexplained bleeding, bruising, or rash, which may be indicative of a shortage of platelets, essential for blood clotting.
- Rough or itchy skin, potentially linked to blood cancer.
- Nausea or loss of appetite, as the spleen enlarges and presses against the stomach due to an accumulation of abnormal blood cells.
- Night sweats, which can be a symptom of blood cancer.
- Persistent fatigue and weakness, often caused by a shortage of red blood cells (anemia).
- Difficulty breathing, attributed to anemia.
- Swelling and painlessness of lymph nodes in the neck or armpits, resulting from an accumulation of abnormal white blood cells.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of blood cancer involves various tests to ascertain the presence and severity of the disease.
Diagnostic Tools and Tests
- Blood Tests
- Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy
- CT Scan
- PET Scan
- X-ray
- Surgical Lymph Node Removal or Biopsy
Sub-Types and Stages
Blood cancer encompasses various sub-types and stages, including:
- Leukemia – Acute and Chronic
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Multiple Myeloma
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)
- Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs)
- Amyloidosis
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia
- Aplastic Anemia
Treatment Modalities
- Surgical Oncology: In rare cases, surgical interventions such as splenectomy may be necessary for certain lymphoma patients. However, surgical procedures are seldom employed as primary treatments for blood malignancies.
- Medical Oncology:
– Chemotherapy: Utilizing chemicals, chemotherapy is aimed at destroying cancer cells. Various combinations of chemotherapy drugs may be employed in the treatment of blood cancer.
– Targeted Therapy: Combining chemotherapy with targeted therapy is a common approach for treating many types of blood cancers.
– Immunotherapy: Harnessing the body’s immune system to combat cancer cells, immunotherapy is often used in the treatment of blood cancers after multiple rounds of chemotherapy.
– Stem Cell Transplantation: This procedure involves transplanting healthy blood-forming stem cells into the body, either from the patient’s own cells or from a compatible donor, to replenish damaged or destroyed cells. - Radiation Oncology: Radiation therapy may be utilized to alleviate pain or discomfort and to eradicate cancer cells. It may also be administered before a stem cell transplant procedure.
Coping with Treatment:
In addition to the medical side effects of blood cancer therapy, patients often face financial burdens and emotional and social challenges. Seeking support from a counselor or talking with family members can be beneficial in coping with these difficulties. The Oncowin offers psycho-oncological counseling and nutritional counseling services to support patients through their treatment journey.
Do’s and Don’ts During Treatment:
Do’s:
- Eat high-fiber foods
- Try smaller, more frequent meals
- Stay hydrated
Don’ts:
- Avoid overexerting yourself
- Avoid unhealthy lifestyle choices
- Avoid eating large meals
- Avoid taking stress
- Avoid large gatherings
Post-Treatment Support
Blood cancer survivors may experience long-term side effects from chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These can include heart problems, thyroid issues, lung damage, infertility (such as premature ovarian failure and menopause in women, and low testosterone levels and sperm counts in men), osteoporosis, hearing loss, and cataracts. Survivors need empathy, mental resilience, and family support. Joining blood cancer post-treatment survivorship support groups can also provide valuable assistance and community.
Follow-up Cancer Care Plan:
After completing treatment, it is essential to request a follow-up care plan. Doctors will provide a personalized plan tailored to the specific type and stage of cancer, ensuring ongoing monitoring and management of any potential long-term effects or recurrence.
Surveillance and Monitoring for Signs & Symptoms of Recurrence
A key goal of follow-up care is to monitor for any signs of recurrence. It’s crucial not to miss follow-up visits and to report any symptoms that might indicate a recurrence immediately. Cancer can reoccur because some undetected cancer cells may remain in the body and evade initial treatment. A physician familiar with your medical history will provide personalized information about your risk of recurrence during these follow-up appointments.
Specialists Doctors Who Care For You
Top Oncologists Providing Exceptional Care at Ahmedabad’s Leading Cancer Hospitals
DM Medical Oncology, Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.
MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary
MD, DNB, FIAP Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist
Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer
MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary
MD, DNB, FIAP Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist
Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary
DM Medical Oncology, Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Hematological Cancer, Anemia and Cytopenia, Head and Neck Cancers, Sarcomas and Bone Tumors.
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Genitourinary Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer
DM Medical Oncology, ECMO (Europe), Co-founder of Oncowin Cancer Center
Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colon Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer
MD, DNB, FIAP Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
MD, FMO Medical Oncology (MUHS) Consultant Medical Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Solid Malignancies like Lung, Breast, Head and neck, Gastro-intestinal, Bone – Soft tissue sarcoma, Genitourinary
MD, DNB, FIAP Consultant Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center
Consultant Pediatric Hematologist and Oncologist, Oncowin Cancer Center, Ahmedabad
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist
Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
Dr NB, PDF Hemato-Oncologist,BMT Physician,
Consultant Medical Oncologist
Consultant Medical Oncologist at Hemato-Oncology Clinic, Baroda
Pediatric Hematology, Pediatric Oncology
Appointment
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- 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nr Nikol Gam Cross Road, Nikol Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350.
- +91 9265313349
- 601 & 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nikol, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350
- +91 9265313349
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Complex, Nr. Mahalaxmi Cross Road, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007.
- +91 9429827762
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Vikas Gruh Rd, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007
- + 91 9994965366
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 8153833606
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Opp. Ranip GSRTC Bus Stand, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 9876543211
Nikol
- 601 & 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nikol, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350
- +91 9265313349
Paldi
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Vikas Gruh Rd, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007
- + 91 9994965366
Nava Vadaj
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Opp. Ranip GSRTC Bus Stand, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 9876543211
Book your appointment
Appointment
Book your appointment
Book your appointment at in just a few clicks. Choose your preferred date, provide basic information, and let our expert oncologists take care of the rest.
Get in touch to book your first appointment
Book your appointment at in just a few clicks. Choose your preferred date, provide basic information, and let our expert oncologists take care of the rest.
Book your appointment
- 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nr Nikol Gam Cross Road, Nikol Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350.
- +91 9265313349
- 601 & 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nikol, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350
- +91 9265313349
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Complex, Nr. Mahalaxmi Cross Road, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007.
- +91 9429827762
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Vikas Gruh Rd, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007
- + 91 9994965366
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 8153833606
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Opp. Ranip GSRTC Bus Stand, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 9876543211
Nikol
- 601 & 610,Shreenath Signet 3, Nikol, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382350
- +91 9265313349
Paldi
- 7th Floor, HR Elanza Vikas Gruh Rd, Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380007
- + 91 9994965366
Nava Vadaj
- 513-515, Shivalik Square, Opp. Ranip GSRTC Bus Stand, Nr. National Handloom, Nava Vadaj, Ahmedabad, Gujarat - 380013.
- +91 9876543211
Book your appointment
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
“I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and support through some difficult times. It is refreshing to work with (and know) someone who provides the utmost in professionalism and genuine kindness. I would highly recommend your company's services to anyone who is concerned for their loved ones care.”
Leela Shah
Cancer Patient
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to Your Questions: Navigate Our Frequently Asked Questions Section
Describe blood cancer.
Blood cancer develops when blood cells begin to grow uncontrollably and abnormally, disrupting the normal function of healthy blood cells.
How is blood cancer identified?
Blood cancer is often first suspected after a physical examination and a blood test reveal abnormalities in the number or type of blood cells present.
Are blood cancers inheritable and what causes them?
While the exact cause of blood cancers is unknown, they are primarily caused by genetic abnormalities that disrupt normal blood cell formation and function. Blood cancers are not typically inherited.
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