Blood Cancer Awareness Month: How Blood Cancers Are Silently Becoming A Crisis In India

Blood cancer is a formidable health challenge in India, casting a shadow over the lives of thousands of individuals each year. With over 100,000 new cases diagnosed annually, India ranks third globally in terms of blood cancer incidence, following the United States and China. This alarming statistic underscores the pressing need for awareness, early detection, and improved access to treatment for this life-threatening disease.

Blood cancer in India

According to GLOBOCAN India, there were an estimated 100,515 new cases and 59,680 deaths from blood cancer in India in 2020. This means that one in 16 people in India are likely to develop blood cancer in their lifetime. The five-year survival rate for blood cancer in India is 30%, which is lower than the global average of 50%.

Common blood cancers in India

Among the various forms of blood cancer, leukemia is the most prevalent in India, accounting for approximately half of all cases. Lymphoma, myeloma, and myelodysplastic syndromes are also common variants of blood cancer that afflict the population.

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What is behind rise in blood cancers

Several factors contribute to the escalating incidence of blood cancer in India. First and foremost is the country's burgeoning population, creating a larger pool of potential cases. Moreover, increasing pollution levels, shifting lifestyles marked by unhealthy diets and sedentary habits, and rising tobacco and alcohol consumption all play a role in the rising incidence of this deadly disease.

Blood cancer does not discriminate by age, although it is more frequently diagnosed in children and older adults. Recognizing its symptoms early is crucial to enhancing treatment outcomes. These symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, fever, unexplained weight loss, easy bruising or bleeding, pale skin, bone pain, and enlarged lymph nodes. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should promptly seek medical attention, as early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

Blood cancer treatment

The treatment of blood cancer is a complex and challenging journey, dictated by factors such as the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatment modalities include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplants, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. However, the financial burden associated with these treatments can be overwhelming for many Indian families.

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The cost of battling blood cancer in India can be exorbitant, often straining family finances to the breaking point. Fortunately, there are government and non-government organizations that offer financial assistance to patients grappling with this financial burden, helping them access the life-saving care they desperately need.

Can blood cancer be prevented

Prevention plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of blood cancer. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can reduce the risk. Avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals are also effective preventive measures. Consultation with a healthcare provider can provide individuals with personalized guidance on reducing their risk.

Beyond the medical aspects, individuals facing blood cancer in India confront a range of additional challenges. These include limited awareness about the disease, societal stigma associated with cancer, inadequate access to quality healthcare, and the high cost of treatment. These formidable obstacles often hinder patients from receiving timely and effective care.

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Fight blood cancer, together

However, numerous organizations are dedicated to addressing these challenges and making strides in improving the situation. Raising awareness, reducing stigma, expanding access to healthcare, and providing financial support are key areas of focus for these organizations.

If you're interested in contributing to the fight against blood cancer in India, there are numerous ways to get involved. Donating to blood cancer charities, volunteering your time and expertise, spreading awareness, encouraging people to undergo screening, and advocating for policies promoting healthy living are all impactful steps toward a brighter future in the battle against this relentless disease.

In unity, we can make a significant difference in combating blood cancer in India. By joining hands and working together, we can improve early detection, access to treatment, and the overall quality of life for those affected by this burdensome disease.

About the Author: Dr Niti Raizada, Senior Director - Medical Oncology and Hemato Oncology, Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru. All views/opinions expressed in the article are of the author.