Just Diagnosed
Being told you have blood cancer or a related condition can feel overwhelming. The first step is to remember that advances in medicine have made many of these diseases highly treatable, and in some cases curable. Getting the right information, guidance, and support at this stage is crucial. A specialist team will help confirm your diagnosis, explain the type of blood cancer, discuss treatment options, and guide you through the journey ahead.
Leukaemia
- Expect further tests (blood work, bone marrow biopsy) to confirm the exact type.
- Your care team will explain whether it is acute (fast-growing) or chronic (slower-growing).
- Treatment often begins quickly for acute forms, while chronic forms may be monitored at first.
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions and involve family in early discussions.
Lymphoma
- A biopsy is usually required to confirm the subtype (Hodgkin or Non-Hodgkin).
- Staging scans (like PET-CT) help determine how advanced it is.
- Many lymphomas are very treatable, even at later stages.
- Your doctor will guide you on whether immediate treatment is needed or if close monitoring is possible.
Myeloma
- Initial tests may include blood counts, urine tests, and bone scans.
- Not all patients need treatment immediately—some are monitored until symptoms appear.
- Supportive care for bones and kidneys may start alongside treatment planning.
- Ask your doctor about new drug options and stem cell transplant possibilities.
Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)
- Diagnosis often involves bone marrow studies to understand risk level.
- Some patients may only need close monitoring and supportive care at first.
- Your doctor will explain whether your condition is low-risk or high-risk.
- Discuss long-term treatment options such as growth factors, medications, or transplant early on.
Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN)
- You may be diagnosed through blood counts, genetic tests, and sometimes a bone marrow biopsy.
- Not all MPNs require immediate treatment—some are managed with monitoring and lifestyle adjustments.
- For certain types, simple measures like phlebotomy or low-dose aspirin may be started.
- Early specialist guidance helps prevent complications and plan for long-term management.