Written by:
Jyoti Kumari
Blood cancer is a general term for a group of cancers that affect the body’s blood production. According to an article published by Shalby Hospital, it’s a significant health concern in India, with estimates suggesting someone is diagnosed every 5 minutes and sadly, around 70,000 people die from blood cancer annually. This article aims to equip you with knowledge about blood cancer in India, covering diagnosis, treatment options, and available support groups.
What is blood cancer?
Your bones have a jelly-like center called bone marrow. This marrow is like a factory that builds important parts for your blood: red things that carry oxygen (like tiny mail carriers), white things that fight germs (like bodyguards), and sticky things that help you clot (like glue). In blood cancer, something goes wrong in this factory. It starts making abnormal parts instead of the good ones you need. This messes up the whole blood-making process.
There are three main types of blood cancer, each affecting different types of blood cells:
Leukemia
This rapidly progresses, affecting the production of all blood cell types. It's further categorized into acute and chronic forms based on its development speed.
Lymphoma
This cancer impacts the lymphatic system, a network of vessels and organs crucial for immunity. It affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell.
Myeloma
This cancer originates in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies to fight infection.
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Symptoms of blood cancer
Blood cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage, but some common ones include:
Fatigue or feeling constantly tired
Fever or chills without a clear cause
Easy bruising or bleeding, even from minor injuries
Frequent infections that don't heal easily
Unexplained weight loss
Night sweats
Bone pain, especially in the back or ribs
Shortness of breath
Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin
Night sweats
Bone pain, especially in the back or ribs
Shortness of breath
Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin
If you experience these symptoms persistently, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Diagnosis of blood cancer
Diagnosing blood cancer involves a multi-step process:
Blood tests
A complete blood count (CBC) checks the number and types of blood cells present, looking for abnormalities.
Bone marrow biopsy
A small sample of bone marrow is extracted from the hip bone and examined under a microscope to identify abnormal cells.
Blood tests
X-rays, CT scans, or PET scans may be used to check for enlarged lymph nodes or other abnormalities related to blood cancer.
Early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment, so don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you have concerns.
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Treatment options for blood cancer in India
Chemotherapy
This uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. The cost of chemotherapy can range from INR 10,000 to INR 2 lakhs per cycle, depending on the type and dosage of drugs used.
Radiation therapy
This uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells in a specific area. Radiation therapy for blood cancer can cost between INR 1.5 lakhs and INR 3 lakhs per treatment session.
Immunotherapy
This treatment helps the body’s immune system recognize and fight cancer cells. Immunotherapy for blood cancer can be expensive, costing anywhere from a few lakhs to several lakhs of rupees per treatment.
Targeted therapy
These drugs target specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer cell growth. Targeted therapy for blood cancer can also be expensive, costing lakhs of rupees per treatment.
Stem-cell transplant
This procedure involves replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor or the patient. The cost of stem cell transplantation can range from INR 20 lakhs to INR 50 lakhs, depending on the type of transplantation and the medical facility.
Disclaimer
The cost of the different treatment options has been sourced from Max Healthcare and Practo and can vary due to various reasons and should be consulted with a doctor or an expert before making a decision.
Fortunately, various treatment options are available for blood cancer in India. The specific treatment chosen depends on the type, stage, and individual patient factors and each treatment option has potential side effects that you should discuss with your doctor before starting treatment.
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Blood Cancer Support Groups in India
Several national and local organizations offer support to blood cancer patients and families in India.
1. Bangalore
2. Delhi NCR
3. Mumbai
4. Other cities
5. Online support groups
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Finding support throughout your journey
A blood cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Here are some ways to find support:
Lean on your loved ones: Surround yourself with family and friends who offer emotional support, listen to your concerns, and help with daily tasks.
Consider therapy or support groups: Talking to a therapist can help you manage stress, anxiety, and depression. Support groups connect you with others facing similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
Start a fundraiser on Milaap: Milaap is a crowdfunding platform that connects people in need with potential donors. If you or someone you know requires financial assistance for blood cancer treatment, Milaap can be a valuable resource.
In times of need, support means everything, and with Milaap, you need not look any further. Milaap enables you to set up a fundraiser for any medical emergency within minutes, and you can easily raise funds for treatment expenses.
Do you know someone who could benefit from fundraising? Simply refer them to us and we’ll be happy to lend a hand.
Visit www.milaap.org or call us on +91 9916174848 to get started now.
For more information, write to us at cx@milaap.org.
