Cancer in various forms is the fastest growing disease of
our times. In Singapore 8,000 new cases of cancer are diagnosed
each year. In the USA 1.2 million cases are found per annum.
Cancer and associated diseases are climbing rapidly all over
the world and current statistics show that one in four deaths
are caused by cancer. The most common forms of cancer are
the leukemias and lymphomas, many of which are curable but
only if detected early.
In Australia more than 4,000 people each year are diagnosed
with the blood cancer, a figure that has more than doubled
over the past 20 years. September the 15th was “Lymphoma
Awareness Day” and here is what Dr Jane Estell, a specialist
from Sydney’s Concord Hospital, has to say about the
disease:
The number of those diagnosed is on the rise, and there is
no explanation for this growth.
“Projected figures show around 4,345 Australians will
be diagnosed this year, however the cause of the cancer and
related blood disorders remains relatively unknown,”
Dr. Estell said.
One of the best ways to prevent the disease is to be on the
lookout for symptoms.
However, a new survey found that 81 per cent of people are
not aware of what the symptoms are.
“Lymphoma can affect anyone, of any age, at any time
so it is important people recognize the symptoms which, if
treated early, can greatly improve the outcomes of this disease,”
said Sharon Millman, president of the Lymphoma Support and
Research Association.
World Lymphoma Awareness Day is a global initiative intended
to push the cancer into the spotlight and save lives around
the world. (MSN Health September 15th 2007)
What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a blood cancer affecting white blood cells and
develops in the lymphatic system. There is no one singular
cause for the disease, although studies have shown possible
associations with exposure to various diseases and toxins
as well as lifestyle influences.
A diagnosis of lymphoma is difficult as often there are no
symptoms present and generally they are of a non-specific
nature. Warning signs include swelling of lymph nodes, lack
of energy, weight loss, night sweats, fever and unexplained
itching. More specific signs may include:
· Painless lymph node enlargement >2cm most common
often in the neck, underarm or groin
· Fevers, night sweats, tiredness, weight loss >10%.
As lymphoma can trigger an immune response it can cause symptoms
similar to those that develop when the body is fighting an
infection
· Widespread itching caused by immune cell histamine
release similar to the itching of allergic conditions. Sometimes
triggered by alcohol
· Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain if lymphoma is affecting
the digestive tract
· Shortness of breath, cough if lymphoma is affecting
the chest
· Headaches, vision changes, seizures if lymphoma is
affecting the brain
· Anemia
· Susceptible to infections, e.g. shingles if lymphoma
is crowding out the bone marrow
· Reddened patches on the skin can occur if lymphoma
cells localized there, causing inflammation.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, and you are
at all concerned, contact your doctor immediately.
Kim Patra is a qualified registered nurse and midwife who
has been living and working in Bali for almost 20 years. She
now runs her own private practice and medical referral service
from her Kuta office. Kim is happy to discuss any health concerns
with you and she may be contacted via e-mail at info@chcbali.com
or Hp. 081 2366 0000.
