Hematological cancer, commonly known as blood cancer, accounts for an estimated 10% of all cancers diagnosed. Since 2010, September has been designated as Blood Cancer Awareness Month. Many health organizations in the U.S. and across the globe, such as the International Myeloma Foundation and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, are participating in Blood Cancer Awareness Month 2024 to promote awareness about the types of blood cancers, research efforts, the significance of early diagnosis and clinical intervention, and to provide support for patients and their families.

The National Cancer Institute defines blood cancer as a form of cancer that affects the production and functions of blood cells that initiate in the bone marrow or the cells of the immune system. According to the American Society of Hematology and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma are examples of the most common types of blood cancers. The Lymphoma Research Foundation indicates that lymphoma is the most common type of blood cancer.

Recent statistics report that an estimated 1,629,474 individuals in the United States are in remission or undergoing treatment for some form of blood cancer. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society also notes that approximately every 3 minutes, someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma, and new cases account for an estimated 9.4% of all new cancers annually, representing 2 million new cases, and an estimated 3% of all cancer-related mortalities. The American Cancer Society projects that in 2024, more than 187,000 new cases of blood cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. Specifically, the projections include 62,770 new cases of leukemia, 89,190 new cases of lymphoma, and 35,780 new cases of myeloma.

Due to research advances in understanding the pathogenesis of the various types of blood cancers, early detection, improved diagnostics, and the development of novel therapies that target the underlying pathophysiologies, many patients diagnosed with blood cancers are living longer. This is especially the case when the cancers are detected early and treated promptly according to patient need.

Research shows that the 5-year relative survival rate for blood cancers has augmented from 24% in the mid-1970s to around 60% in recent years. Rates of survival are different depending on the type and stage of each blood cancer and on patient factors, including overall health and the presence of other chronic comorbidities.

More information on Blood Cancer Awareness Month can be found here.

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