Introduction: Debunking myths about blood cancers
Blood cancers are a broad group of disorders that affect the blood and bone marrow. In a recent interview for Lifestyle, Dr. Guilherme Sapinho shed light on the most persistent myths and offered a clearer view of what patients and families can realistically expect. The field of hematology has seen rapid advances, but understanding the facts remains essential for informed decisions and better quality of life during treatment.
Mito 1: Só existe um tipo de cancro do sangue? / Myth 1: Is there only one type of blood cancer?
The reality is far more complex. Blood cancers arise from various blood cell types — red cells, white cells, and platelets — each with distinct biological features. The bone marrow serves as the production plant for these cells, and mutations there can lead to a spectrum of cancers, from aggressive leukemias and lymphomas to slower, chronic conditions. Causes are often multifactorial, including certain exposures (radiation, benzene, solvents, pesticides) and, in some cases, inherited predispositions. This diversity means that prognosis and treatment can vary dramatically from patient to patient.
Mito 2: Pacientes com cancro do sangue devem evitar açúcar e carne durante o tratamento / Myth 2: Should patients avoid sugar and red meat during treatment?
Dr. Sapinho clarifies that restrictive diets have not shown proven survival benefits in blood cancers. While cancer cells use glucose, restricting sugar has not demonstrated meaningful outcomes in clinical studies. Diets should be varied and balanced to support energy needs during demanding treatments, with supervision from the medical team. Some foods may be restricted due to medication interactions or infection risk, but these guidelines are individualized and should be discussed with clinicians rather than imposed universally.
Mito 3: Com cancro do sangue, os doentes não podem morar em casa, trabalhar ou seguir a sua rotina diária / Myth 3: Can patients stay at home, work, and maintain daily routines?
The answer depends on cancer type and treatment intensity. Some regimens are pill-based and can be managed at home; others require periodic hospital visits, and certain situations demand inpatient care. Daily routines, including work, must be tailored to treatment schedules and how the patient feels post-therapy. Infection risk and physical capacity play roles in what activities are feasible. Open communication with the care team is essential to plan accommodations that preserve independence and safety.
Mito 4: O cancro do sangue é sempre fatal / Myth 4: Blood cancer is always fatal
This is a critical misconception. While some blood cancers remain incurable, many patients achieve long-term survival, sometimes with a cure, and often with a good quality of life. The hematology field has progressed rapidly, expanding treatment options that can control disease, reduce symptoms, and extend life. Setting realistic expectations with the care team helps align goals with the available therapies and the patient’s values and preferences.
Mito 5: Todos os doentes precisam de um transplante de medula óssea / Myth 5: Do all patients need a bone marrow transplant?
Transplants are powerful tools but not universal answers. Indications vary by disease type, stage, and patient fitness. Some conditions benefit from autologous transplants (using the patient’s own cells), others from allogeneic transplants (donor cells). Many patients are effectively treated with alternative strategies such as targeted therapies or standard chemotherapy. The decision is a careful risk-benefit assessment conducted by the treating team.
Mito 6: O cancro do sangue aparece apenas por condições genéticas / Myth 6: Blood cancer appears solely due to genetics
Genetic factors play a role in the risk of blood cancers, but most cases involve acquired genetic changes that occur during life rather than inherited faults. Rare familial syndromes exist, requiring closer monitoring. Prevention is limited for most blood cancers, but reducing exposure to certain hazards (radiation, carcinogenic chemicals) and maintaining a healthy lifestyle may contribute to lower overall risk. The emphasis remains on early detection through symptom awareness and appropriate testing when concerns arise.
Mito 7: A ingestão de vitaminas e suplementos pode reduzir o risco / Myth 7: Do vitamins and supplements reduce risk?
Comprehensive studies have not shown that multivitamins or specific vitamins prevent blood cancers. While supplements can benefit general health in some contexts, they should not be viewed as a protective measure against these diseases. Patients should discuss supplements with their medical team, considering potential interactions with treatments and overall health status.
Mito 8: Basta um exame de sangue para detetar / Myth 8: A single blood test is enough to detect
Blood cancers often present with nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, infections, fevers, or abnormal bleeding. While blood tests are crucial for raising suspicion, definitive diagnosis typically requires additional imaging (CT or PET scans), bone marrow sampling, and targeted genetic testing. A multidisciplinary diagnostic approach ensures accurate classification and guides appropriate treatment plans.
In summary, myths around blood cancers can cloud understanding and decisions. An informed discussion with hematology specialists, like Dr. Sapinho, helps patients navigate the complexities of disease, treatment options, and quality of life considerations. As research progresses, hope grows for more effective therapies and better outcomes for those affected.
