Every September, the world unites to raise awareness for Blood Cancer Awareness Month. This global initiative aims to shine a light on this group of cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. By understanding blood cancers, their symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis, we can empower individuals and communities to take action against this disease.
Blood cancers are a group of malignancies that develop when abnormal blood cells start growing uncontrollably. These abnormal cells crowd out healthy blood cells, hindering the body's ability to fight infection, produce blood, and maintain overall health.
Here are some of the most common types of blood cancers –
This cancer affects the white blood cells, the body's defense system against infections. There are various types of leukemia, each with its unique characteristics.
This cancer originates in the lymphatic system, a network of vessels and tissues responsible for transporting immune cells throughout the body. Similar to leukemia, lymphoma has different subtypes depending on the affected cells. .
This cancer impacts plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. Plasma cells produce antibodies that help fight infections. In myeloma, abnormal plasma cells multiply rapidly, damaging bone and affecting other bodily functions. .
Blood Cancer Awareness Month serves several critical purposes, such as –
Early detection of blood cancer is crucial for achieving better treatment outcomes and higher survival rates. Raising awareness empowers individuals to be more attentive to potential symptoms and seek medical evaluation promptly. .
Blood cancer can be a daunting journey for patients and their families. It helps raise awareness, fostering a supportive network for patients, families, and survivors. Sharing experiences, offering emotional support, and connecting with others impacted by blood cancer can significantly strengthen their fight. .
It plays a vital role in driving fundraising and research efforts. With increased awareness comes greater public interest and financial support for organizations dedicated to finding cures and developing new treatment options for blood cancers. .
While symptoms can vary depending on the specific type of blood cancer, some common warning signs include:
Persistent fatigue and weakness
Frequent infections
Easy bruising or bleeding
Unexplained weight loss
Swollen lymph nodes
Pain in the bones or joints
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
It's important to note that these symptoms can also be associated with other conditions. However, if you experience any of these concerns, it's vital to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and evaluation.
Blood cancer risk factors are still being researched, but some contributing factors may include:
Exposure to radiation or certain chemicals
Family history of blood cancer
Certain genetic conditions
Blood Cancer Awareness Month has its roots in the early 2000s. Organizations dedicated to supporting blood cancer research and advocacy, such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), spearheaded initiatives to raise public awareness about these diseases. The movement gained momentum, and in 2010, September was officially declared Blood Cancer Awareness Month by a unanimous resolution in the United States Senate. Today, this global campaign unites healthcare professionals, patients, families, and advocates worldwide in the fight against blood cancers.
The awareness month presents a valuable opportunity for everyone to participate and make a difference. Here are some ways you can get involved:
Wear red, the color associated with blood cancer awareness, on September days and share information about blood cancers on social media using relevant hashtags. .
Donations to organizations like the LLS or your local blood cancer center fuel research efforts and provide critical support services for patients and their families. .
Volunteer your time and skills to blood cancer organizations. Whether it's fundraising events, patient support groups, or administrative tasks, your contribution can make a significant impact. .
In Blood Cancer Awareness Month, FCCMG stands united with the global community in supporting the fight against blood cancers. We encourage you to learn more about these diseases, spread awareness, and explore ways to get involved. Remember, early detection is key, so be mindful of potential symptoms and schedule regular checkups with your healthcare provider. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by blood cancers.
Dr. Bunten is originally from Huntington Beach, CA. He attended high school in Tokyo, Japan, went to college at UC San Diego and then to medical school in the Midwest. He returned home to California for residency training in Family Medicine at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. His immediate family all reside in Huntington Beach.
Dr Fishbein has been in the practice of family medicine for over 35 years in Irvine. He received his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University, medical degree from Chicago Medical School, and completed his family medicine residency at Memorial Hospital of Long Beach.
Dr. Kim is the Medical Director of Family Care Centers, Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at Hoag Hospital, and a recipient of the Physicians of Excellence award from the Orange County Medical Association. He is Board Certified in Family Medicine, and has been practicing in our community for over 20 years.
Dr. Memon is a board certified Family Medicine physician and recently completed her fellowship in Geriatrics at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center. She attended Saint George’s University, School of Medicine and completed her residency at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. Her interest in medicine started at an early age and has since evolved into a passionate career.
Dr. Gina Nguyen obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Irvine where she graduated Suma Cum Laude. She went to USC Keck School of Medicine, and returned to UC Irvine for a Family Medicine Residency. Since 2005, she worked at Kaiser Permanente, VNCOC, and Family Care Center Urgent Care.
Dr. Williams is Board Certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine. He is a native to Orange County and returned home after completing his medical degree at the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. After completing his residency in family practice he successfully completed a fellowship in sports medicine.
Dr. Hye Lee is a board-certified Family Practice Physician, affiliated with the American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Osteopathic Family Practice.She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Riverside and earned her medical degree from Des Moines University Osteopathic Medical Center. Afterward, she did her internship at Downey Regional Medical Center in California and has been a primary care physician since 2005.
Dr. Coyne is a board certified family practice physician and a California native. He completed his undergraduate degree at UCLA before earning his medical degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Dr Coyne spent 6 years in the US Air Force at Andrews and Luke Air Force bases, eventually separating as a Major. He enjoys working with patients of all ages.”
Dr. Jay Friehling is a Family Practice physician who has worked in Orange County since 1981. Born in Florida, he received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and then earned a Medical Degree at the New York Medical College.” His healthcare interests include Diabetes, Geriatric Care, and Hospice Care.
Dr. Jennifer Shoquist is board certified in Family Medicine. Her special interest is woman’s health and her practice accepts patients from 6 years old to seniors. Dr. Shoquist received her M.D. degree at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston in Houston, Texas, and did her residency with Memorial Family Practice at memorial Southwest Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Tom is a board certified family medicine physician and native Californian. He received his bachelors of science with great distinction in biochemistry and honors in chemistry. Dr. Tom was awarded a Regents Scholarship to attend medical school at UC Irvine.
Dr. Yan attended Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her Family Practice residency at Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, California. She joined Family Care Center in 2001. She chose Family Practice because she enjoys working with a wide variety of people and because it provides a unique opportunity for continuing care.
