Introduction
Blood cancers are a diverse group of diseases that affect different blood cells and bone marrow. In an interview with the doctor Guilherme Sapinho, it becomes clear that there is no single fate attached to these conditions. Some cancers progress rapidly and demand urgent treatment, while others evolve slowly and can be monitored. Advances in hematology have brought more treatment options in recent years, offering real hope to many patients.
Myth 1: There is only one type of blood cancer
Truth: Blood cancers come in many forms. Blood is made of red cells, white cells, and platelets, and each can undergo malignant changes. The bone marrow is the factory where these cells are produced; errors in DNA can lead to uncontrolled growth and immune system evasion. Some cancers, like acute leukemias, act quickly and require fast, intensive therapy, while others—certain lymphomas or myeloproliferative disorders—may behave indolently and be watched over long periods without immediate treatment.
Myth 2: Patients should avoid sugar and red meat during treatment
Truth: There is no strong evidence that strict dietary restrictions improve survival in blood cancers. While cancer cells do use sugar, drawing a direct benefit from cutting sugar or red meat is not proven. Diet should be balanced and tailored to the individual, ensuring adequate calories for recovery. Some restrictions may apply due to drug interactions or infection risk, or to minimize side effects, and these should be discussed with the medical team on a case-by-case basis.
Myth 3: People with blood cancers cannot live at home or return to normal activities
Truth: The reality varies with cancer type and treatment. Some regimens are oral and can be taken at home, others require hospital visits, and some may require brief stays for closer supervision. Daily routines, including work, must be adjusted to treatment schedules and how the patient feels. Telework may be feasible for some, while others in physical jobs may need modifications. Individual plans should be developed with the treating team, recognizing that tolerance to treatment varies widely.
Myth 4: Blood cancer is always fatal
Truth: A blood cancer diagnosis is not a certainty of a poor outcome. Some cancers are curable, especially with timely, effective therapy, even in aggressive forms like certain leukemias. Others permit long survival with ongoing treatment while preserving quality of life. The field of hematology has seen significant progress, expanding options and improving outcomes for many patients, though expectations must be realistic and personalized.
Myth 5: All patients need a bone marrow transplant
Truth: Transplantation is not required for most patients. It is reserved for specific situations and depends on disease type, overall health, and treatment response. Autologous transplants use the patient’s own cells and are common in some lymphomas and myelomas, while allogeneic transplants use donor cells and are more typical for certain acute leukemias. The decision weighs potential benefits against risks and is made on an individual basis.
Myth 6: Blood cancers come only from genetic conditions and cannot be prevented
Truth: The malignant changes in blood cancers occur at the DNA level but are generally acquired rather than inherited. While there is a minority of hereditary risk for some cases, most are not strictly genetic in origin. Prevention is limited, but avoiding prolonged exposure to certain radiation or chemicals and maintaining a healthy lifestyle—regular exercise, a balanced diet, and prompt attention to symptoms—are sensible strategies.
Myth 7: Vitamins and supplements prevent blood cancers
Truth: Large studies have not shown that multivitamins or individual vitamins reliably prevent blood cancers. Supplements should not be relied upon as a protective measure. If a patient considers vitamins, they should discuss this with their doctor to avoid potential interactions with cancer therapies.
Myth 8: A single blood test can diagnose blood cancer
Truth: Early symptoms are often nonspecific, such as fatigue or fever. While blood tests can raise suspicion, a definitive diagnosis usually requires multiple tools: imaging (CT or PET scans), bone marrow biopsy, and genetic tests to identify specific mutations. A comprehensive diagnostic workup, often including biopsy and marrow analysis, is essential to confirm the exact type and guide treatment.
