World Lymphoma Awareness Day

 Lymphoma Awareness Day takes place every year on 15^th September to raise awareness of Lymphoma and that it is the 5^th most common cancer. It was initiated in 2004 to raise public awareness of symptoms, early diagnosis, and treatment. The main message for 2022 is “We Can’t Wait to address the ways the pandemic has affected people living with lymphomas.”

Signs and symptoms

• Painless enlarged lymph nodes

• Recurrent fever

• Persistent itching

• Fatigue

• Unexplained weight loss

• Breathlessness and coughing

• Night sweats

• Excessive sweating

• Loss of appetite

• Enlarged Tonsils

• Headache

 Facts about lymphoma

1. Lymphoma is cancer of the lymphocytes (white blood cells).
2. 864,000 people are diagnosed with lymphoma each year worldwide.
3. Lymphoma is the most common blood cancer
4. There are over 80 types of lymphoma affecting people of all ages. Each type needs different treatment.
5. 1 in 10 cancers diagnosed in Children are lymphomas
6. The most common lymphoma symptom is a painless swelling in the lymph nodes.
7. Lymphoma symptoms can be overlooked because they can be like less serious illnesses, such as the flu.
8. Symptoms do not determine the lymphoma subtype. The subtype is determined through testing with a specialist.
9. There are no screening tests for lymphoma.
10. Over half of all patients report feeling confident when they are more informed about their disease.

It is important to know about the symptoms as with some subtypes, an early diagnosis can improve the patients’ outcome. If you notice the signs and symptoms of lymphoma don’t be afraid to speak to a health care professional.