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Blood Cancer Awareness Month

Blood Cancer Awareness Month: Spotlight on Follicular Lymphoma – Symptoms, Support, and Research

September marks Blood Cancer Awareness Month, an important time dedicated to raising awareness about blood cancers, supporting patients, and advancing cutting-edge research. As we take this opportunity to educate and inform, the Follicular Lymphoma Foundation (FLF) stands committed to providing valuable resources, support, and hope for those affected by follicular lymphoma (FL). We continue to accelerate transformative research focused on FL and prioritize the patient voice on a global mission to find a cure for follicular lymphoma.

Why Blood Cancer Awareness Month Matters – Importance of Early Detection for Follicular Lymphoma

Awareness is the first step toward change. By educating ourselves and others, we can improve early detection rates, reduce stigma, and support those living with follicular lymphoma and other blood cancers. Together, we can work towards a future where all blood cancers are curable.

Join us this September in making a difference.

Lymphoma Awareness Day - September 15th

Lymphoma Awareness Day is an integral part of Blood Cancer Awareness Month. On this day, we focus on:

➤ Raising awareness: Educating the public about the signs and symptoms of lymphoma, particularly follicular lymphoma, to promote early diagnosis.

➤ Supporting patients: Highlighting the stories of those affected by follicular lymphoma, offering support, and encouraging participation in support groups.

➤ Advancing research: Fundraising for research into new treatments and potential cures for follicular lymphoma and other types of lymphoma.

What is Blood Cancer?

Blood cancer is a collective term for malignancies that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. The three main types of blood cancer are leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Each type of blood cancer affects different parts of the body’s blood production system and requires specialized treatment.

Understanding Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, a critical part of the immune system. The lymphatic system includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow. Lymphoma can be broadly classified into two main types:

➤ Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL)

➤ Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)

Follicular lymphoma, a slow-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, is the second most common form, affecting thousands of people each year. Understanding follicular lymphoma symptoms and treatment options is key to early detection and effective management. Follicular lymphoma accounts for about 20% of all NHL cases. It is generally slow growing, but it can transform into a more aggressive form over time. This makes early detection and ongoing management crucial.

Signs and Symptoms of Follicular Lymphoma

➤ Painless swelling of lymph nodes: Often in the neck, armpit, or groin.

➤ Fatigue: A common but non-specific symptom that can significantly affect daily life.

➤ Fever, night Sweats, and weight loss: Known as “B symptoms,” can occur in some people with FL (not to be confused with B cell lymphoma).

If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.

How You Can Help

Get Involved in Blood Cancer Awareness Month: Spread the Word, Support Follicular Lymphoma Research, and Make a Difference:

➤ Share information: Spread awareness about follicular lymphoma on social media using hashtags like #BloodCancerAwarenessMonth, #LymphomaAwarenessDay, and #FollicularLymphoma..

➤ Donate: Support the Follicular Lymphoma Foundation’s efforts to fund cutting-edge research and provide patient support services.

➤ Participate in events: Join our virtual events, fundraisers, and educational webinars to learn more and show your support.

Resources and Support

The Follicular Lymphoma Foundation offers a wealth of resources to help patients and families navigate their journey:

➤ Patient support groups: Connect. with others who are facing similar challenges.

➤ Educational materials: Access comprehensive guides. on follicular lymphoma symptoms, follicular lymphoma diagnosis, and more about lymphoma.

➤ Research updates: Stay informed. about the latest research developments and clinical trials.