Weakness and fatigue: 5 warning signs of blood cancer you shouldn’t ignore

Blood cancer represents a formidable group of diseases that originate in the body’s blood-forming tissues, disrupting vital functions of the immune system and blood cells1. This category of cancers, affecting red blood cells, white blood cells crucial for immunity, and platelets essential for clotting, arises when these cells undergo abnormal growth and impair normal blood function2.In India, where reported cases rank third globally, blood cancer diagnoses are alarmingly frequent, with someone diagnosed every 5 minutes and an estimated 70,000 lives lost annually to this disease.
Blood cancer in India primarily appears in three key forms: Leukaemia, Lymphoma, and Myeloma, each impacting distinct aspects of the body’s blood and immune systems4. Leukaemia involves the abnormal production of white blood cells within the bone marrow, disrupting its normal function5. Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, where an excessive number of abnormal lymphocytes impair the body’s ability to fight infections. 6Lastly, Myeloma targets plasma cells, crucial for immune response, weakening overall immune function.

Recognizing Early Symptoms:

1. Persistent Fatigue and Weakness: While fatigue is common, prolonged and unexplained tiredness coupled with weakness can signal underlying issues. Blood cancer often impedes the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, leading to anaemia and persistent fatigue.
2. Unintentional Weight Loss: According to Dr. Eytan M. Stein, MD, Leukemia Specialist & Early Drug Development Specialist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, “Sudden and unintended weight loss without dietary changes or increased activity levels may indicate an early stage of blood cancer. Cancer cells alter metabolism, causing weight loss despite unchanged routines.”
3. Increased Susceptibility to Infections: Blood cancers compromise the immune system, heightening vulnerability to infections. Frequent and prolonged illnesses, especially those requiring extended recovery periods, should be evaluated promptly.

4. Easy Bruising and Bleeding: Unexplained bruising, bleeding gums, or prolonged bleeding after minor injuries suggest potential blood clotting issues associated with certain blood cancers. These symptoms require medical assessment to rule out serious conditions.
5. Drenching Night Sweats: Excessive night sweats that occur regardless of room temperature or activity levels can be alarming. Although they can result from various conditions, they are also a symptom associated with some blood cancers.

Understanding the Risk Factors of Blood Cancer

The specific causes of blood cancer remain unknown, but several factors are known to contribute to its development9. Age is a significant factor, with leukaemia being most common in children under 14 and adults over 40. Tobacco use in any form can weaken the immune system and damage DNA, increasing the risk of cancer. Excessive alcohol consumption can disrupt bone marrow cell production, further complicating the body’s ability to fight disease. While increasing urbanization and occupational hazards may expose individuals to certain environmental factors, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular medical check-ups can help mitigate potential risks. These proactive measures can support DNA integrity and lower the chance of developing blood cancer. Family history of haematological diseases also increases susceptibility. Awareness of these risk factors is crucial for preventive measures and early detection through regular medical consultations.
Recognizing these warning signs of blood cancer early can greatly improve treatment outcomes. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical advice. Early diagnosis and intervention play a pivotal role in effectively managing blood cancers, potentially enhancing treatment success and quality of life. Taking action early can make a significant difference in the course of the disease.