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New Delhi: Lymphoma is a life-threatening disease that originates in the lymphatic system which is a vital part of the immune system. World Lymphoma Awareness Day is essential in promoting lymphoma awareness, providing support to sufferers and their families, promoting research, early identification, eliminating stigma, and building international cooperation in the battle against the challenging group of blood cancer.
Dr Prashant Mehta, Senior Consultant, Department of Medical Oncology/Haematology/BMT, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad told News9, “Although Lymphoma, a type of cancer of white blood cells is mostly a sporadic (randomly accruing) disease, and a few risk factors may be non-modifiable, there are a few changes we could make in our lifestyle to reduce the risk of getting lymphoma and cancer in general. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and keeping away from tobacco and smoking can reduce lymphoma risk.”
According to hematology.org, lymphomas, or cancers of the lymphatic system, account for nearly half of all blood cancer cases each year, and around 12 per cent of those who have lymphomas have Hodgkin lymphomas.
“Some autoimmune conditions can increase the risk of Lymphoma, stress can cause flares of such conditions so it is recommended to avoid stress. A balanced hygienic diet is similarly beneficial in reducing the risk. Certain types of breast implants can rarely lead to lymphoma so women with implants need to be aware of this. Patients on immunosuppressants post kidney or liver transplant should make sure they follow the advice of their doctors carefully to avoid increased risks and get an early diagnosis,” added Dr Mehta.
Risk factors
Some viral infections like hepatitis C and HIV can substantially increase lymphoma risk, to reduce your risk of acquiring these viruses engage in safe sexual practices. People who have persistent heartburn-type symptoms may be harbouring hidden H pylori bacterial infection which can increase the risk of a specific type of lymphoma.
