Expert Warns: Five Silent Symptoms Indicating Possible Blood Cancer

Recognizing the early signs of blood cancer can be crucial for timely intervention and treatment. According to Dr. Nitin Agarwal, MD in Transfusion Medicine and Head of Donor Request Management at DKMS Foundation India, early detection is vital in improving treatment outcomes and survival rates for patients diagnosed with hematologic cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. This article outlines five subtle yet significant symptoms that may indicate the onset of blood cancer, emphasizing the importance of awareness and proactive health management.

**Understanding Blood Cancer** Blood cancer, which includes a range of malignancies that disrupt the normal production and function of blood cells, often goes unrecognized in its initial stages. These cancers primarily develop in the bone marrow, where blood cells are generated, leading to a gradual decline in the body’s ability to function normally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), blood cancers account for a significant percentage of cancer cases worldwide, with an estimated 70,000 deaths annually in India alone, representing 8% of all new cancer diagnoses.

**The Five Silent Symptoms** 1. **Persistent Fatigue**: Unlike common tiredness that improves with rest, fatigue related to blood cancer is severe and persistent. Dr. Agarwal explains that this fatigue often results from the body's inability to produce sufficient healthy red blood cells, leading to anemia, which is particularly prevalent in leukemia and myeloma patients. 2. **Frequent Infections**: A compromised immune system due to blood cancer can lead to recurrent infections. Dr. Agarwal notes that as blood cancers proliferate, they can crowd out healthy white blood cells, essential for fighting infections. Individuals may notice an increase in the frequency and severity of seasonal illnesses. 3. **Unexplained Bleeding or Bruising**: Symptoms such as frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or unexplained bruising should be taken seriously. According to Dr. Agarwal, these signs can indicate platelet dysfunction due to leukemia. Additionally, the appearance of petechiae—small red or purple spots on the skin—can signal internal bleeding and warrants immediate medical evaluation. 4. **Unexplained Weight Loss and Night Sweats**: Significant weight loss without any lifestyle changes, coupled with night sweats and recurrent fevers, can be indicative of lymphoma. Dr. Agarwal warns that these symptoms are frequently misattributed to stress or hormonal changes but should be investigated if persistent. 5. **Swollen Lymph Nodes or Bone Pain**: Painless lumps in the neck, armpits, or groin that persist for weeks may signify swollen lymph nodes, a common indicator of lymphoma. Persistent bone pain, particularly in areas such as the ribs or spine, could be associated with multiple myeloma, which damages the bone marrow.

**The Importance of Stem Cell Transplants** When diagnosed with blood cancer, one of the most effective treatment options is a blood stem cell transplant. This procedure involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a matching donor. Dr. Agarwal emphasizes that a successful transplant can rejuvenate the blood and immune systems, offering patients a renewed chance at life. Unfortunately, India faces a dire shortage of stem cell donors, with only 0.09% of the population registered as potential donors, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

**Awareness and Action Needed** The critical shortage of potential stem cell donors in India compounds the challenges faced by blood cancer patients. With only 30% of patients able to find a matched donor within their family, the remaining 70% must rely on unrelated donors. Dr. Agarwal urges individuals to consider donating stem cells, highlighting that the process is safe and could ultimately save lives.

In conclusion, early detection of blood cancer through awareness of these five symptoms is essential. Individuals are encouraged to remain vigilant about their health and seek medical attention for any concerning signs. The road to recovery begins with understanding the body’s signals and acting promptly.