Understand Blood Cancer: Types, Stages, Symptoms, Modern Treatments, and Survival Rates

The term blood cancer is often used as though it describes a single disease. In reality, it encompasses a diverse group of cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system, including leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. These diseases differ significantly in how they develop, how they are staged, the symptoms they cause, and the treatments they require.

What these diseases have in common is that early recognition, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment can make a meaningful difference to outcomes. The good news is that advances in targeted therapy, immunotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy, and bone marrow transplantation have transformed the outlook for many patients, making blood cancers more treatable than ever before.

At the same time, understanding the type and stage of blood cancer remains an important part of treatment planning and prognosis. In this article, we explain the different types and stages of blood cancer, common symptoms, modern treatment approaches, and the factors that influence survival and long-term outcomes.

Key Takeaways

• Blood Cancer Types: Blood cancer affects the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system and is broadly classified into three main types: leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
• Common Symptoms: Persistent fatigue, recurrent infections, swollen lymph nodes, and night sweats should not be dismissed and warrant medical evaluation.
• Staging: Blood cancers are staged differently from solid tumours, and the staging system varies depending on the specific type of blood cancer.
• Modern Treatments: Targeted therapy, immunotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy, and bone marrow transplantation have significantly improved treatment outcomes.
• Survival and Outcomes: Many blood cancers are treatable, and some are curable, particularly when diagnosed early and managed at a specialist centre.

What is Blood Cancer?

Blood cancer, also called hematologic cancer, is a broad term for cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system, the organs and tissues responsible for producing blood cells and supporting the body’s immune defences.

In a healthy person, the bone marrow produces three main types of blood cells: red blood cells, which carry oxygen; white blood cells, which help fight infection; and platelets, which help blood clot. Blood cancer disrupts this process by causing abnormal blood cells to grow and multiply uncontrollably. Over time, these abnormal cells crowd out healthy blood cells and interfere with their normal functions.

Unlike solid tumours such as breast, lung, or colon cancer, blood cancers usually do not form a single localised mass. Instead, they affect the blood-forming and immune systems throughout the body, which is why their diagnosis and treatment often require a different approach. Depending on the type of blood cancer, treatment may involve chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, bone marrow transplantation, or a combination of these approaches.

What are the Three Main Types of Blood Cancer?

Blood cancers are broadly classified into three main types based on where they originate and which blood or immune cells are affected. Understanding the type of blood cancer is important because each behaves differently and requires a distinct treatment approach.

Leukaemia

Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It occurs when the bone marrow produces large numbers of abnormal white blood cells that crowd out healthy blood cells and interfere with normal blood formation.

Leukaemia is classified according to how quickly it progresses (acute or chronic) and the type of blood cell involved (lymphoid or myeloid). The main forms include Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL), and Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML). Some forms progress rapidly and require urgent treatment, while others may develop more slowly over time.

Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, an important part of the body’s immune defence network. It develops when lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, grow and multiply abnormally.

Lymphoma is divided into two main categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma is characterised by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells and is often highly treatable. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma includes a diverse group of diseases that vary in behaviour, aggressiveness, and treatment requirements.

Myeloma (Multiple Myeloma)

Myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, the immune cells responsible for producing antibodies. In multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and produce abnormal proteins that can damage bones, kidneys, and the immune system.

The disease commonly affects multiple areas of the bone marrow simultaneously, which is why it is known as multiple myeloma. Advances in targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and bone marrow transplantation have significantly improved treatment outcomes for many patients.

Rarer forms of blood cancer include:

• Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs): A group of blood cancers in which the bone marrow produces excessive numbers of red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets, disrupting normal blood cell balance and function.
• Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS): A group of disorders in which the bone marrow produces abnormal or poorly formed blood cells. Many of these cells do not mature properly and may die before entering the bloodstream, leading to shortages of healthy blood cells. Immature blood cells are known as blasts.

What are the Symptoms of Blood Cancer?

Because blood cancers affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system rather than a single organ, their symptoms can be wide-ranging and are often mistaken for less serious conditions. Symptoms that persist, recur frequently, worsen over time, or occur in combination should not be ignored.

Fatigue and Weakness

Persistent fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of blood cancer. Unlike ordinary tiredness, it does not improve with rest and can interfere with everyday activities. This often occurs because abnormal blood cells reduce the production of healthy red blood cells, leading to anaemia and reduced oxygen delivery throughout the body.

Persistent Fever

Recurring or prolonged fever without an obvious cause may be an early warning sign of certain blood cancers, particularly leukaemia and lymphoma. It can occur as a result of immune system dysfunction or the body’s response to abnormal blood cells.

Night Sweats

Drenching night sweats that soak clothing or bed linen without an obvious explanation are commonly associated with lymphoma and some other blood cancers. They are thought to result from inflammatory substances released by cancer cells and the body’s immune response to the disease.

Unusual Bleeding or Bruising

Frequent bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts may indicate a reduced platelet count. This can occur when abnormal blood cells interfere with the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy platelets.

Frequent Infections

Blood cancers can impair the body’s ability to produce and maintain healthy white blood cells. As a result, patients may experience recurrent infections or infections that take longer than expected to resolve.

Bone Pain

Persistent bone pain, particularly in the back, ribs, or hips, is commonly associated with multiple myeloma. It occurs when abnormal plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and affect normal bone structure.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Unintentional weight loss without changes in diet, exercise, or lifestyle can occur in several blood cancers, particularly lymphoma and leukaemia. It reflects the increased metabolic demands of the disease and should always be evaluated.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin is one of the most recognised symptoms of lymphoma. Enlarged lymph nodes that persist for several weeks or continue to grow warrant medical assessment.

Shortness of Breath

Breathlessness during routine activities or even at rest may develop as a result of anaemia, enlarged lymph nodes affecting nearby structures, or disease-related complications. New or unexplained shortness of breath should not be ignored.

Itchy Skin or Skin Rash

Some blood cancers, particularly certain lymphomas, can cause persistent itching without an obvious skin condition. Others may produce visible skin changes, including rashes, red patches, or nodules.

A Note on Blood Cancer Symptoms

Many of these symptoms can occur with common, non-cancerous conditions. What warrants attention is when symptoms persist, recur frequently, worsen over time, or occur in combination without an obvious explanation. If you are experiencing ongoing fatigue, recurrent infections, unexplained weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, or other concerning symptoms, it is important to seek medical evaluation rather than relying on self-diagnosis.

What are the Stages of Blood Cancer?

Staging helps doctors understand how advanced a cancer is, estimate prognosis, and plan the most appropriate treatment. However, blood cancers are staged differently from solid tumours such as breast, lung, or colon cancer.

Because blood cancers affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system, they do not usually form a single tumour that can be measured. Instead, staging is based on factors such as the extent of disease involvement, blood counts, organ involvement, genetic features, and specific laboratory findings.

Different blood cancers use different staging systems.

Staging of Leukaemia

Acute leukaemias, including Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) and Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), are not typically assigned stages I to IV. Instead, doctors assess factors such as the subtype of leukaemia, genetic abnormalities, response to treatment, and the amount of disease present in the bone marrow.

Patients are generally categorised into risk groups, such as low, intermediate, or high risk, which helps determine treatment intensity and whether a bone marrow transplant may be required.

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) is staged using the Rai or Binet staging systems. The simplified Rai classification includes:

Staging of Lymphoma

Lymphoma is staged using the Lugano classification, which is based on the Ann Arbor staging system.

In lymphoma, staging helps determine treatment intensity and provides important prognostic information. Even advanced-stage lymphoma can often be treated successfully with modern therapies.

Staging of Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is staged using the Revised International Staging System (R-ISS). This system incorporates blood protein levels, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, and certain chromosomal abnormalities to estimate disease risk and prognosis.

Patients are classified into Stage I, II, or III disease. Stage I is generally associated with the most favourable outcomes, while Stage III reflects more aggressive disease biology and a higher disease burden.

What Causes Blood Cancer and Who is at Risk?

The exact cause of most blood cancers is not fully understood. Blood cancer develops when genetic changes occur within blood-forming or immune cells, causing them to grow, divide, and survive abnormally. In most cases, it is not possible to identify a single trigger. However, certain factors are known to increase the risk of developing specific types of blood cancer.

Exposure to Radiation

High-dose radiation exposure is a well-established risk factor for certain blood cancers, particularly leukaemia. This may occur following previous cancer treatment, accidental radiation exposure, or prolonged occupational exposure in specific settings.

Chemical Exposure

Long-term exposure to certain industrial chemicals, especially benzene, has been linked to an increased risk of leukaemia. Benzene may be found in some fuels, solvents, and industrial manufacturing processes. Some studies have also reported associations between pesticide exposure and certain lymphomas.

Weakened Immune System

People with weakened immunity are at higher risk of developing some blood cancers, particularly lymphomas. This includes individuals living with HIV, organ transplant recipients receiving immunosuppressive medications, and those with certain inherited immune disorders.

Family History and Genetic Factors

A family history of certain blood cancers may slightly increase risk. Some inherited genetic conditions, including Down syndrome and Fanconi anaemia, are also associated with a higher likelihood of developing leukaemia. However, it is important to note that most blood cancers are not inherited and occur in people with no family history of the disease.

Age

The risk of blood cancer varies by type and age group. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) is most commonly diagnosed in children, while Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL), and Multiple Myeloma are more frequently seen in older adults.

Viral and Infectious Factors

Certain infections have been linked to specific blood cancers. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with some forms of lymphoma, while Human T-cell Leukaemia Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1) is linked to a rare type of T-cell leukaemia. In addition, Helicobacter pylori infection is associated with gastric MALT lymphoma, a type of lymphoma that may respond to antibiotic treatment when diagnosed early.

A Note on Risk Factors

Having one or more risk factors does not mean a person will develop blood cancer, and many patients diagnosed with blood cancer have no identifiable risk factors at all. Understanding these associations helps guide awareness and early evaluation, but blood cancer can occur in anyone.

How is Blood Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosing blood cancer requires a combination of blood tests, bone marrow evaluation, molecular testing, and imaging studies. The goal is not only to confirm the diagnosis but also to identify the specific type of blood cancer, determine its extent, and guide the most appropriate treatment plan.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A complete blood count is often the first test that raises suspicion of blood cancer. It measures the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood. Abnormal results, such as very high or very low cell counts, may indicate the need for further investigation.

Blood Chemistry Tests

Additional blood tests assess organ function and help identify disease-related abnormalities. These may include kidney and liver function tests, protein studies, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), beta-2 microglobulin, and other markers that provide important information about disease activity and prognosis.

Bone Marrow Biopsy

A bone marrow biopsy is one of the most important tests used to diagnose blood cancers. During the procedure, a small sample of bone marrow, usually from the hip bone, is collected and examined under a microscope. This helps determine the type of blood cancer, the extent of bone marrow involvement, and key features that influence treatment decisions.

Molecular and Genetic Testing

Modern blood cancer treatment relies heavily on molecular diagnostics. Tests such as flow cytometry, cytogenetic analysis (including karyotyping and FISH), and next-generation sequencing help identify specific genetic and molecular abnormalities within cancer cells.

These findings play a critical role in diagnosis, risk stratification, treatment selection, and monitoring response to therapy. For example, the Philadelphia chromosome in Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML) and specific mutations in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) directly influence treatment planning.

Imaging Tests

Imaging studies help determine the extent of disease and identify involvement of lymph nodes, organs, or bones. Depending on the type of blood cancer, investigations may include CT scans, PET-CT, MRI scans, or X-rays.

PET-CT is particularly important in lymphoma, where it helps establish the stage of disease and assess how well treatment is working by identifying areas of active disease throughout the body.

At RGCIRC, blood cancer diagnosis is supported by specialised haemato-pathology, molecular diagnostics, advanced imaging, and transfusion medicine services, enabling comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning under one roof.

What are the Treatment Options for Blood Cancer?

Blood cancer treatment has advanced significantly over the past two decades. The development of targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and cellular therapies such as CAR-T cell therapy has transformed outcomes for many patients. Treatment is highly individualised and depends on the type of blood cancer, its stage, genetic and molecular features, and the patient’s overall health.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to destroy rapidly dividing cancer cells or prevent them from multiplying. It remains a cornerstone of treatment for many acute leukaemias and lymphomas and is typically delivered in planned treatment cycles. Modern supportive care has significantly improved the safety and tolerability of chemotherapy.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapies are designed to block specific molecular abnormalities that drive cancer growth. These treatments can be highly effective in selected patients and are often associated with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. Examples include tyrosine kinase inhibitors for Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML) and targeted agents for certain forms of leukaemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. Treatments such as monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, and bispecific antibodies have become important options for several blood cancers, particularly lymphomas and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy may be used in selected blood cancers, particularly lymphoma. It can be used alone for localised disease or combined with chemotherapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. In some cases, radiation is also used before stem cell transplantation.

CAR-T Cell Therapy

CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell) therapy is one of the most significant advances in modern blood cancer treatment. The patient’s own T-cells are collected, genetically modified to recognise cancer cells, and then reinfused into the body. CAR-T therapy is currently used for selected relapsed or refractory leukaemias and lymphomas and has produced remarkable results in patients who have exhausted conventional treatment options.

Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

In an autologous stem cell transplant, a patient’s own healthy stem cells are collected and stored before high-dose treatment. The stem cells are then reinfused to restore bone marrow function. This approach is commonly used in multiple myeloma and selected lymphomas.

Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant

An allogeneic stem cell transplant uses stem cells from a compatible donor to replace diseased bone marrow. It is an important treatment option for selected patients with high-risk leukaemias, lymphomas, aplastic anaemia, and certain inherited blood disorders. In addition to replacing the bone marrow, donor immune cells can help eliminate residual cancer cells, improving long-term disease control.

At RGCIRC, blood cancer treatment is delivered through a dedicated haemato-oncology and bone marrow transplant programme, with access to advanced diagnostics, CAR-T cell therapy, stem cell transplantation, and multidisciplinary treatment planning.

How Can You Support Your Health During Blood Cancer Treatment?

Blood cancer treatment affects more than the disease itself. Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and bone marrow transplantation can influence energy levels, appetite, sleep, emotional wellbeing, and day-to-day functioning. While every patient’s experience is different, certain lifestyle measures can help support overall health during treatment. Always discuss any significant dietary, activity, or lifestyle changes with your treating team.

Focus on Good Nutrition

Treatment can affect appetite, taste, and digestion, making it difficult to maintain adequate nutrition. Eating small, frequent meals may be easier than consuming larger portions. Foods rich in protein, such as eggs, dal, paneer, yoghurt, fish, and lean meats, can help support recovery and maintain strength during treatment.

If eating becomes challenging, a clinical dietician can provide personalised guidance based on your treatment plan, nutritional needs, and symptoms. Nutritional support forms an important part of comprehensive cancer care at RGCIRC.

Stay Active Within Your Limits

Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of blood cancer treatment. While rest is important, prolonged inactivity can sometimes worsen weakness and reduce stamina. Depending on your condition and blood counts, gentle physical activity such as short walks or light stretching may help maintain mobility and overall wellbeing.

Always follow your doctor’s advice regarding exercise, as activity recommendations vary between patients and treatment stages.

Prioritise Rest and Recovery

Adequate rest plays a vital role in recovery during treatment. Listen to your body’s signals and allow yourself time to recover when needed. If you experience persistent sleep disturbances, discuss them with your healthcare team, as supportive measures may be available.

Reduce the Risk of Infection

Many blood cancer treatments can temporarily weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. Simple precautions can help reduce this risk, including regular hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with people who are unwell, following food-safety recommendations, and adhering to any specific precautions advised by your treatment team.

Patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy or bone marrow transplantation may require additional infection-control measures based on their individual circumstances.

Pay Attention to Emotional Wellbeing

A blood cancer diagnosis can bring uncertainty, anxiety, and emotional stress for both patients and their families. Seeking support from counsellors, psycho-oncology specialists, support groups, or trusted family members can help patients cope with the challenges of treatment.

At RGCIRC, psychological and supportive care services are available as part of a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment, helping patients address both the physical and emotional aspects of their journey.

What Are the Survival Rates for Blood Cancer?

Survival rates for blood cancer vary widely depending on the type of cancer, its stage, genetic and molecular characteristics, the patient’s age and overall health, and how well the disease responds to treatment. Importantly, outcomes for many blood cancers have improved significantly over the past two decades due to advances in targeted therapy, immunotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy, and stem cell transplantation.

Leukaemia

Survival rates for leukaemia depend on the specific subtype. Some forms, such as childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), now have excellent outcomes with modern treatment protocols. Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML), once considered a life-threatening disease for many patients, can often be controlled effectively for years with targeted therapies. Outcomes for Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) and other high-risk leukaemias vary according to disease biology, patient fitness, and response to treatment.

Lymphoma

Many lymphomas are highly treatable, and some are curable. Hodgkin lymphoma is considered one of the most curable forms of cancer, particularly when diagnosed early. Outcomes for Non-Hodgkin lymphoma vary considerably because it includes many different subtypes, ranging from slow-growing diseases that can be managed over long periods to aggressive lymphomas that require intensive treatment but may still be cured.

Multiple Myeloma

Although multiple myeloma remains a chronic condition for most patients, treatment advances have substantially improved survival and quality of life. Modern therapies, including targeted treatments, immunotherapies, and autologous stem cell transplantation, have enabled many patients to achieve long periods of disease control and remission.

Understanding Survival Statistics

Survival statistics provide useful information about large groups of patients, but they cannot predict an individual patient’s outcome. Factors such as disease subtype, stage, genetic profile, treatment response, and access to specialised care all influence prognosis.

For this reason, survival estimates should be interpreted as general guides rather than individual predictions. The most accurate assessment of prognosis comes from a detailed discussion with the treating haemato-oncology team after a complete diagnostic evaluation.

Why Trust RGCIRC for Blood Cancer Treatment?

The successful treatment of blood cancer depends on more than just medication. It requires accurate diagnosis, specialised expertise, access to advanced therapies, and strong supportive care throughout the treatment journey. At RGCIRC, patients benefit from a comprehensive haemato-oncology programme that brings these capabilities together under one roof.

Dedicated Haemato-Oncology and Transplant Expertise

Blood cancer treatment at RGCIRC is led by a dedicated haemato-oncology and bone marrow transplant team with expertise in managing leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and other complex blood disorders. Every case is reviewed through a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring treatment decisions are tailored to the patient’s disease subtype, molecular profile, and overall health.

One of India’s Most Experienced Bone Marrow Transplant Programmes

RGCIRC’s Bone Marrow Transplant programme has been performing transplants since 2000 and has completed approximately 1,000 transplants, with around 125 procedures performed annually. The programme offers autologous, allogeneic, haploidentical, and matched unrelated donor transplants, supported by a dedicated transplant unit with specialised infrastructure and infection-control protocols.

Advanced Cellular Therapies Including CAR-T

RGCIRC offers CAR-T cell therapy for selected blood cancers, providing an important treatment option for patients with relapsed or refractory disease. Dr Dinesh Bhurani has performed the highest number of CAR-T procedures in Northern India, supported by an experienced cellular therapy and transplant team.

Precision Diagnostics for Personalised Treatment

The institute’s dedicated haemato-pathology and molecular laboratories provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, including flow cytometry, cytogenetics, FISH, and next-generation sequencing. These technologies help identify disease-specific genetic abnormalities and guide personalised treatment planning.

Recognised Excellence in Cancer Care

RGCIRC holds NABH accreditation (5th Edition) and NABL accreditation for laboratory services and has received national and international recognition for excellence in oncology care, including recognition among the World’s Best Specialised Hospitals by Newsweek.

Commitment to Accessible Cancer Care

As a not-for-profit institution, RGCIRC provides financial counselling and treatment support for eligible patients through its Philanthropy Department, helping improve access to advanced blood cancer treatment for those in need.

Final Words

Blood cancer is a complex group of diseases, but advances in diagnosis and treatment have transformed outcomes for many patients. Today, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy, and stem cell transplantation are helping more people achieve long-term disease control and, in some cases, cure.

Recognising potential warning signs and seeking timely medical attention remain important. Persistent fatigue, recurrent infections, unexplained weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, or other ongoing symptoms should not be ignored, particularly when they do not have an obvious explanation.

At RGCIRC, patients have access to a dedicated haemato-oncology programme, advanced diagnostics, specialised transplant services, and personalised treatment planning designed to support them at every stage of their care journey.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is blood cancer the same as leukaemia?

No. Leukaemia is one of the three main types of blood cancer. The other two are lymphoma, which affects the lymphatic system, and myeloma, which affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. Each type behaves differently and requires a distinct treatment approach.

What are the early warning signs of blood cancer?

Common warning signs include persistent fatigue, recurrent infections, unexplained bruising or bleeding, swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and persistent fever. While these symptoms can occur with many non-cancerous conditions, ongoing or unexplained symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.

Can a person fully recover from blood cancer?

Yes. Many blood cancers are treatable, and some are curable. Outcomes depend on the type of blood cancer, its stage, genetic features, and response to treatment. Advances in targeted therapy, immunotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy, and stem cell transplantation have significantly improved survival and long-term outcomes.

Is blood cancer hereditary?

Most blood cancers are not inherited. They usually develop as a result of genetic changes that occur during a person’s lifetime. However, certain inherited genetic conditions and a family history of specific blood cancers may increase risk.

Is blood cancer painful?

Not always. Many blood cancers cause little or no pain in their early stages. However, some patients may experience bone pain, enlarged lymph nodes, abdominal discomfort, or other symptoms depending on the type and extent of the disease.

Can blood cancer cause anaemia?

Yes. Blood cancers can interfere with the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy red blood cells, resulting in anaemia. This may cause fatigue, weakness, breathlessness, dizziness, and reduced exercise tolerance.

Which blood cancer is most difficult to treat?

Treatment outcomes vary widely between individuals. Some high-risk leukaemias, relapsed blood cancers, aggressive lymphomas, and advanced multiple myeloma can be challenging to treat. However, modern therapies continue to improve outcomes for many patients.

Can blood cancer spread from one person to another?

No. Blood cancer is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through physical contact, sharing food, blood exposure in daily life, or any other form of person-to-person interaction.

When should I see a blood cancer specialist?

You should seek specialist evaluation if you have persistent symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, recurrent infections, swollen lymph nodes, unusual bleeding, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss. Early assessment can help identify the cause and ensure timely treatment if needed.

Where can I find a blood cancer specialist near me in Delhi?

If you are looking for a blood cancer specialist near you in Delhi, consider a centre with dedicated expertise in haemato-oncology, access to advanced diagnostics, and the ability to offer the full spectrum of blood cancer treatments under one roof. At RGCIRC, blood cancer care is delivered through a specialised haemato-oncology and bone marrow transplant programme with expertise in leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, CAR-T cell therapy, and stem cell transplantation. Supported by dedicated molecular diagnostics, multidisciplinary treatment planning, and one of India’s most experienced bone marrow transplant programmes, RGCIRC provides comprehensive care for patients with blood cancers at every stage of the treatment.