The recent passing of a well-known actor brought renewed attention to blood cancers, including lymphoma. These cancers, encompassing Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, are a significant health concern. Lymphoma, in particular, is a relatively common blood cancer, but its subtle early symptoms can delay diagnosis, and it carries a substantial mortality rate.
Despite its unfamiliar name, lymphoma is not a rare cancer. In 2022, 6,447 cases were reported in the country, accounting for 2.3% of all cancer diagnoses and ranking within the top 10 most frequently occurring cancers.
Lymphoma originates in the lymphatic system, a crucial part of the body’s immune defense. It develops when lymphocytes – white blood cells that fight infection – become cancerous and proliferate excessively. Because lymphatic tissues are distributed throughout the body – in the neck, armpits, groin, chest, and abdomen – lymphoma can arise in almost any location.
Lymphomas are broadly categorized as Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Over 90% of lymphoma cases in the country are non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which tends to spread more readily through the blood and lymphatic system, potentially increasing the risk of recurrence. The incidence of lymphoma also increases with age.
Symptoms of Lymphoma
The most common symptom of lymphoma is the enlargement of lymph nodes in areas like the neck, armpits, and groin. However, in the early stages, these nodes may not be painful or cause noticeable discomfort. As the disease progresses, systemic symptoms such as unexplained fever, night sweats, and unintentional weight loss can appear. Symptoms can also vary depending on the location of the lymphoma.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, such as infections or inflammation. Self-diagnosis is unreliable. If symptoms persist for an extended period, seeking medical evaluation is crucial.
Understanding the Mortality Rate
The perception of lymphoma as a particularly deadly cancer stems from the aggressive nature of some lymphoma subtypes and the fact that many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. High-grade lymphomas, characterized by rapid growth, can quickly worsen if left untreated. However, early treatment often leads to positive outcomes and remission. Conversely, low-grade lymphomas progress slowly, sometimes requiring only observation or exhibiting a chronic pattern of improvement and relapse over years.
Lymphoma encompasses a diverse range of subtypes, each with a unique clinical course and prognosis. Achieving complete remission – where no cancer cells are detectable – doesn’t guarantee a cure, as recurrence is possible, necessitating long-term monitoring.
Treatment Approaches
Lymphoma treatment varies based on the specific subtype and stage of the disease. A combination of chemotherapy and targeted therapy is typically the foundation of treatment. Chemotherapy uses drugs to directly kill cancer cells, while targeted therapy focuses on specific characteristics of the cancer to enhance treatment effectiveness.
Radiation therapy may be used in conjunction with chemotherapy. In cases with a high risk of relapse, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation – also known as bone marrow transplantation – may be considered. This involves high-dose chemotherapy to eliminate cancer cells, followed by the infusion of healthy stem cells to restore bone marrow function. The introduction of immunotherapy has also improved treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Increased Risk in Older Adults
The risk of developing lymphoma increases with age, largely due to a phenomenon known as “immune senescence.” As people age, the ability of cells to repair DNA damage declines, and the function of key immune cells, T cells and B cells, diminishes. This weakens the body’s ability to detect and eliminate abnormal lymphocytes.
Treatment can be more challenging in older adults, not necessarily due to age itself, but because of pre-existing medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. These conditions can make it difficult to tolerate standard-intensity chemotherapy. A weakened immune system increases the risk of infection during treatment, requiring careful management.
Addressing Misconceptions About Lymphoma in the Elderly
The notion that lymphoma developing in older adults is slow-growing and doesn’t require treatment is inaccurate. While some lymphomas are suitable for observation, This represents not universally true. Delaying appropriate treatment can worsen the prognosis. We see also crucial to avoid self-treating with unproven remedies or dietary supplements, as these may interfere with conventional therapies and potentially increase side effects. Any such approaches should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Lifestyle Factors and Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent lymphoma. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and lean protein is important for overall health and immune function. Regular moderate exercise, such as walking or swimming, can support immune cell circulation and improve physical fitness, aiding in treatment tolerance.
