If you are facing blood cancer, you have us to help. A hematologist (blood disease specialist), radiation oncologist, social worker and an entire care team will work together to create a treatment plan specific to you. This means that you will receive the best possible care available today and into the future. From diagnosis through post-treatment follow-up, you have us right by your side.
What Is Blood Cancer?
Blood cancer affects the production and function of your blood cells. In most cases, abnormal production of a blood cell interrupts normal blood cell development. This prevents your blood from performing its vital functions, such as fighting off infection and preventing serious bleeding.
Types of Blood Cancer
There are many types and subtypes of blood cancer – which can affect your lymphatic system, red or white blood cells, platelets and bone marrow. Some types of blood cancer treated at Avera Cancer Institute include:
- Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s)
- Leukemia
- Multiple myeloma
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Signs & Symptoms
Signs and symptoms vary depending on the type of blood cancer, but may include:
- Bruising or bleeding easily
- Bone pain or weakness
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Fatigue
- Low blood counts
- Weight loss
- Severe or frequent infections
- Swelling in the abdomen
- Feeling full after eating only a small amount
Risk Factors
Besides your family medical history, the likelihood of a cancer diagnosis can rise due to other outside forces. For example, blood cancer tends to be slightly more common in men than women. Some known risk factors include:
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Exposure to benzene and certain chemicals
- Exposure to radiation
- Alcohol consumption
- Poor diet
- Obesity
- Older age
Manage My Risk
Checking for Blood Cancer
With early detection and expert oncology treatment, there’s hope. Turn to Avera Cancer Institute for detecting and treating blood cancers.
- Hematologists have the specialty training needed to provide cancer treatment services as well as blood and marrow transplants.
- They can detect blood cancers through a combination of physical exams, blood tests, bone marrow tests and/or imaging tests like CT, MRI and PET scans.
See Other Screenings
Treatment Options at Avera Cancer Institute
After a blood cancer diagnosis is determined, there are a variety of treatments based on your specific diagnosis. Turn to Avera Cancer Institute. Our board-certified hematologists and oncologists have the specialty training needed to provide personalized cancer care.
