Common Misconceptions About Lymphoma Explained
One of the most common forms of blood cancer in India is lymphoma, a form of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system of the body. With increasing access to the internet and media, there has been a spread in ideas of how lymphoma and other cancers originate and advance.
While these theories may seem logical, they are often medically inaccurate, hindering treatment and creating panic. This article explores lymphoma cancer and explains the reality behind some common misconceptions.
What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a type of cancer of the lymphatic system, which is a part of the immune system and aids in fighting disease. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes found in the groin, abdomen, chest, pelvis, underarms, tonsils, thymus, and bone marrow.
Lymphoma cancer occurs when the cells of the lymphatic system grow out of control. It can quickly spread (or metastasise) to different organs and tissues in the body. Individuals experiencing lymphoma symptoms should contact a medical professional immediately.
There are approximately 70 different types of lymphoma cancer, which are divided into two categories:
1. Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Reed-Sternberg cells are present in Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which are unusually large B lymphocytes.
2. Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is the most common type of lymphoma, and it develops from B and T lymphocytes present in the lymph nodes and tissues.
What are Common Lymphoma Symptoms?
Lymphoma symptoms may be challenging to detect initially since they are similar to those of other viral diseases. However, they often last for extended periods. Signs to look out for include:
– Swelling of the lymph nodes
– Back pain
– Persistent fever without an infection
– Chills and night sweats
– Weight loss and reduction in appetite
– Fatigue
– Persistent coughing and chest pain
– Pain in the abdomen
– Pain, weakness, or paralysis in cases where enlarged lymph nodes press against the spinal cord or nerves.
Individuals experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above should consult a medical professional for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
What Are Some Common Misconceptions About Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is an often-misunderstood form of blood cancer due to the number of misconceptions about it. Some common myths surrounding it include:
1. All blood cancer patients require a bone marrow transplant
While bone marrow transplants can treat certain kinds of lymphoma, they are not always required. Treatment plans are created based on a patient’s diagnosis, disease progression, and genetic profile, among other factors. Technological advancements have also led to more targeted treatment plans based on genetic profiling.
2. Patients with blood cancers cannot consume sugar and meat
Eating excess sugary foods or foods containing excessive animal fats can lead to obesity, which is linked to the development of cancer. However, there has been no scientific evidence that cutting out sugar can reduce or cure lymphoma.
This applies to meat as well—most individuals undergoing lymphoma treatment avoid meat due to the nausea and reduction in appetite they experience. However, avoiding meat will not cure the condition.
3. Stress can impact lymphoma
In several animal studies, chronic stress was found to increase the production of growth factors that lead to the development of cancer. Some studies done on animals have also suggested that chronic stress and stress hormones may “wake up” dormant cancer cells and cause the formation of tumours.
However, there has been no research on humans linking stress and lymphoma (or any other types of cancer). There has also been no cause-and-effect relationship found between stress and the worsening of lymphoma.
4. Individuals undergoing treatment for lymphoma cannot live at home, work, or follow a daily routine
Every individual’s condition and treatment plan are different. Depending on their overall health, response to treatment, and stage of illness, they may be able to receive treatment in their locality. Some patients may even be able to continue working (although many take time off from work during treatment).
5. Taking supplements and vitamins can prevent cancer
This is a popular misconception due to marketing strategies used by many industries. However, no scientific evidence suggests that consuming supplements and vitamins can prevent lymphoma. Additionally, individuals who consume sufficient amounts of nutritious food do not need to take vitamins or supplements.
6. Leukemia and lymphoma are the same
While leukaemia and lymphoma are similar, they are not the same. They are both forms of blood cancer, but they have different issues and treatments. Lymphoma is typically a solid tumour formed by blood cells, whereas leukaemia is seen in the bloodstream.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional for further guidance regarding lymphoma symptoms and misconceptions. Individuals presenting with symptoms of lymphoma must seek medical attention and book a lymphoma test with Dr Lal PathLabs.
FAQs
1. Can certain foods cure lymphoma?
There is no evidence suggesting that a specific diet can cure lymphoma.
2. Is lymphoma contagious?
Lymphoma and other forms of cancer are not contagious. However, certain viruses (like HIV or hepatitis C), which can lead to the development of cancer, are infectious.
