30-year-old Karan Singh (name changed) from Bangalore had been feeling unusually tired for several weeks. He was taken to a private hospital in the city, where blood tests confirmed leukemia. Despite early detection of the condition, his family’s belief in myths kept them from beginning the treatment process. Dr Neema Bhat, Senior Consultant Hematologist and Hemato-Oncologist at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore, says , “As Singh’s family was not onboard, we did several counseling sessions.” After busting myths about blood cancer, he was treated. With timely medical intervention, he was able to get back to work and his usual life, his doctor shares. “He is on regular follow-ups,” she adds.
Understanding blood cancer
Blood cancers are of three types: leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma.
While leukemia is more common in children, myeloma is more commonly seen in adults. Lymphomas can be seen in both children and adults, says Dr Harish P, senior consultant, medical oncology, hemato-oncology and bone marrow transplantation, Cytecare Hospitals, Bangalore. He added that the early signs of blood cancer include high fever, cough, breathlessness and extreme weight loss. “When such symptoms persist for over two weeks, one should seek medical advice,” he said.
Blood cancer myths busted
Experts say that people are often resistant to treatment options due to misconceptions about the condition. Oncologists share some common myths about blood cancer, which often leads to delays in its early detection and treatment.
1. Myth: Blood cancer is fatal and difficult to diagnose
Fact: Despite the common notion that someone diagnosed with blood cancer will not survive for long, Dr Harish says, “More than 90% of the blood cancers are curable and the individuals diagnosed with the condition can also lead a normal life after proper treatment.”
Dr Mallikarjun Kalashetty, consultant hematologist, hemato-oncology and bone marrow transplantation, Manipal Hospitals, Bangalore, also stresses that several blood cancers can be cured; however, an early diagnosis is crucial for better outcomes. Moreover, it is not difficult to diagnose the condition, as blood cancers can now be diagnosed more promptly and accurately, he adds.
2. Myth: Blood cancer is contagious
Fact: While diagnosed people are often isolated by their family due to fear of its spread to those in proximity. However, blood cancer is not contagious, reminds Dr Bhat. Blood cancers like leukemia, myeloma and lymphoma are caused due to mutations in the blood cells, not infection or bacteria.
Dr Bhat adds, “Those with the condition are at higher risk of contracting infections, which can worsen their condition. Hence, we advise that they stay away from children, who might be more exposed to a variety of infections.”
3. Myth: Blood cancer is hereditary and may be caused due to a family history
Fact: Some believe that blood cancer is seen only in those with a family history of the same, shares Dr Bhat. However, the condition is caused by gene mutations, which may be triggered by lifestyle habits like excessive smoking. Some causes leading to this type of cancer are still unknown.
4. Myth: People with blood cancer cough up blood
Fact: Oncologists say that it is not necessary that all individuals with blood cancer present with symptoms like coughing up blood. Subtle symptoms like unexplained weight loss and tiredness are more common in the early stages. However, if someone does not begin treatment at the right time, these symptoms can worsen and lead to serious ones like coughing up blood.
5. Myth: Hair loss after chemotherapy is permanent
Fact: “Most often, hair loss is caused by the medication used in chemotherapy, which can kill the fast-growing cells in the body,” explains Dr Bhat. However, this is not permanent, and the hair can regrow after three to six months of therapy, she adds.
Experts share that hair loss also depends on the type of blood cancer — acute or chronic. Those with chronic leukemia do not experience hair loss as they usually require mild chemotherapy to manage the condition. However, those with acute blood cancer experience hair loss as they undergo chemotherapy for a prolonged period.
6. Myth: People with blood cancer should not consume non-vegetarian food
Fact: One need not avoid non-vegetarian food like chicken. However, he cautions, “Those with blood cancer undergo rigorous treatment, making them immunocompromised.” Thus, they are advised to avoid food not prepared at home to avoid contracting infections. Experts also recommend abstaining from collagen-rich food like beef and pork bone broth, and ultra-processed and deep-fried foods. So, they are advised to reduce the intake of non-vegetarian foods like meat while they are undergoing chemotherapy. “Instead, food rich in fiber and protein should be included in the diet,” says Dr Kalashetty.
7. Myth: Everyone with blood cancer must undergo bone marrow transplant
Fact: Bone marrow transplant is often considered as the last treatment option and not everyone with blood cancer is required to take it. Dr Harish talks about certain types of blood cancers, where targeted therapies such as oral medication is used. For example, bone marrow transplant was earlier the preferred way to treat chronic myeloid leukemia, a type of cancer that occurs in the bone marrow. However, the condition can now be managed with oral medications as well, says Dr Harish.
8. Myth: Alternative treatment methods like ayurveda are more effective
Fact: Some people think that opting for traditional methods like homeopathy and ayurveda can help in managing blood cancer more effectively and cause fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy. However, Dr Harish says that opting for alternative options can delay the treatment, causing the condition to worsen. Hence, standard treatment with proven curative potential is always recommended.
