Dr. Aniket Mohite : Leading Blood Disorder Expert at Jehangir Hospital, Pune, and Novo Solitaire Care, Kharadi

The Rising Tide of Blood Cancer in India: Understanding the Challenge

Blood cancer, a formidable adversary, is on the rise in India. According to projections by our health ministry, the incidence is set to reach 15.7 lakhs per year by 2025 from the 14.6 lakhs recorded in 2022. This alarming increase places India as the 3rd highest country in reported cases, following the United States and China.

The Landscape of Blood Cancers

Blood cancers constitute around 6% of total cancers, with prominent types being Lymphoma, Leukemia, and Myeloma. A patient is diagnosed with blood cancer approximately every 3 minutes, highlighting the urgency of addressing this health challenge.

Understanding the Global Standing

India’s high rank in reported cases can be attributed to several factors. Advances in healthcare have led to early diagnosis, a double-edged sword that aids in timely treatment but also contributes to the growing statistics. Additionally, the population’s increased exposure to pollution in air, water, and food, along with pesticides and chemicals in food products, adds to the complexity of the issue. Lifestyle changes further compound the problem.

Faces of Blood Cancer: From Children to the Elderly

This surge in blood cancer patients spans all age groups, from children as young as 1 to the elderly in their 80s and 90s. In a bustling hospital like Jehangir, where I consult on at least 10-20 new cases weekly, the demographic diversity is stark. It’s a poignant reminder that blood cancers do not discriminate based on age.

Dispelling Myths and Embracing Hope

Contrary to a persistent myth, blood cancer patients can survive longer today. Thanks to advances in therapies like Immunotherapy and Targeted therapies, the tolerance of patients has improved, and side-effects have decreased significantly.

Curative Approaches: Bone Marrow Transplant and CART Therapy

A beacon of hope in treating blood cancers lies in Bone Marrow Transplants (BMT). This curative modality extends its benefits not only to blood cancers but also to non-cancer diseases like Aplastic anemia and Thalassemia. At Jehangir Hospital, our dedicated BMT team, comprising doctors, nurses, laboratories, and blood banks, ensures well-tolerated procedures with better long-term survival outcomes.

Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy (CART) is a breakthrough for refractory lymphomas and Leukemia, showcasing the continuous evolution of medical interventions.

Specialized Care at Jehangir Hospital and Novo Solitaire Care

Jehangir Hospital stands as a testament to comprehensive healthcare. Our specialized oncology department ensures a seamless journey from diagnosis to a multi-disciplinary tumor board, incorporating cutting-edge treatments like Immunotherapy, Targeted therapy, and BMT.

Novo Solitaire Care, situated in Kharadi, offers exclusive care for Hematology, oncology, and fertility preservation. This holistic approach caters to both cancer and non-cancer patients, recognizing the importance of preserving fertility in the face of increasing survival rates.

Nurturing Hope and Planning for the Future

Novo Solitaire Care goes beyond treating the disease; it embraces a holistic approach, preserving fertility and planning for a normal family life. In an era where more patients can survive longer, the emphasis on current and future needs of young patients is crucial.

The rising incidence of blood cancers in India necessitates a proactive and comprehensive approach. Advances in therapies, specialized care at renowned institutions like Jehangir Hospital, and the holistic approach of Novo Solitaire Care collectively contribute to a brighter outlook for those affected.

FAQs

How common is blood cancer in India?
The incidence of blood cancer in India is projected to reach 15.7 lakhs per year by 2025.

What are the contributing factors to the rise in blood cancer cases?
Advances in healthcare, increased pollution, and changing lifestyles are significant contributors.

Are Bone Marrow Transplants only for cancer patients?
No, Bone Marrow Transplants are curative for both blood cancers and non-cancer diseases like Aplastic anemia and Thalassemia.

How does Immunotherapy improve patient outcomes?
Immunotherapy enhances patient tolerance and reduces side-effects, contributing to better long-term survival.

What makes Novo Solitaire Care unique in its approach?
Novo Solitaire Care provides exclusive care for Hematology, oncology, and fertility preservation, emphasizing a holistic approach to patient well-being.