Blood Cancers
Blood cancer develops when a specific type of blood cell, produced within your bone marrow, grows and multiplies in an uncontrolled or irregular manner. The specific type of blood cancer diagnosis is determined by the type of cell affected and the developmental stage at which the abnormal changes occurred.
The three main types of blood cancers commonly diagnosed in rangatahi are Leukaemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma.
Leukaemia
Leukaemia is a type of cancer affecting the blood and bone marrow, where there is excessive and uncontrolled production of abnormal and immature blood cells. These cells rapidly increase in number within the bone marrow, leading to overcrowding and eventually spilling into the bloodstream.
There are two main growth patterns – acute which involves a rapid onset and fast growth. And chronic, which is a gradual onset and slow growth over months or years.
The primary types of leukaemia include:
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)
- Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)
- Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)
- Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)
Leukaemia is the fourth most common cancer affecting rangatahi in Aotearoa (Source: AYA Network). Read Mikyla’s story to learn how her leukaemia diagnosis impacted her life, and how Canteen supported her through the hard times.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a form of blood cancer distinguished by the unrestricted multiplication of lymphocytes (type of white blood cells). These abnormal cells can be detected in lymph nodes, spleen, and other tissues. The cancer may progress to affect the bone marrow and bloodstream, resembling leukaemia.
Lymphoma encompasses numerous subtypes, broadly classified into two main categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Lymphoma stands as the second most prevalent cancer affecting rangatahi in Aotearoa.
Myeloma
Myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is a form of blood cancer resulting from the rapid multiplication of abnormal plasma cells within the bone marrow. While plasma cells are typically present in limited quantities in the bone marrow, their primary function involves boosting the immune system by generating antibodies. These antibodies circulate in the bloodstream to combat bacterial or viral infections.
Disclosure: The information provided in this article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult a qualified medical professional or your healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice.
Support
Discovering you, or a member of your whānau, is facing a blood cancer can be really hard. A diagnosis of blood cancer can result in a range of mixed reactions and life challenges.
Cancer affects everyone differently. That’s why Canteen provides a wide range of free support services to help rangatahi manage the specific challenges they’re dealing with. Canteen services and events can help you find ways to cope with what life looks like now you are facing these unexpected challenges.
You can talk to one of our specialist clinical team about the impacts of cancer on your life. This can be either in person, over the phone, or online. Rangatahi can also connect online 24/7 with peers who understand what you’re going through.
For more support and information on blood cancer, we also recommend reaching out to the Leukemia & Blood Cancer team, or your Adolescent & Young Adult (AYA) key worker at your hospital. The following resources and links provide more detailed information: