Blood Cancer Treatment

How is Blood Cancer Diagnosed?

Blood cancer is diagnosed using a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests and specialised investigations. Initially, doctors order a complete blood count (CBC) to identify unusual levels or types of blood cells. Depending on the suspected cancer, doctors may recommend a bone marrow biopsy, lymph node biopsy, imaging scans or other laboratory tests. Molecular and genetic testing may also be performed to identify specific changes in cancer cells and help determine the most appropriate treatment.

Types of Blood Cancer and Their Treatment

Blood cancer has three major types, and each requires a different treatment approach, such as:

Other Treatments for Blood Cancer

Various blood cancer treatments may be used alone or combined with other therapies, depending on the type and stage. Some treatments are as follows:

• Radiation Therapy: Radiation uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. It may be used for certain lymphomas, localised collections of cancer cells or to relieve symptoms caused by tumours.

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses medicines that destroy cancer cells or prevent them from multiplying. Different combinations are used for different blood cancers, and treatment may be given orally, intravenously or through other routes.

• Targeted Therapy: Targeted medicines act on specific proteins or genetic changes involved in cancer growth. They can be particularly useful when testing identifies a target that can be treated with an available medicine.

• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. It includes medicines such as monoclonal antibodies and immune checkpoint inhibitors, depending on the type of blood cancer.

• Stem Cell Transplantation: A stem cell transplant replaces damaged or diseased blood-forming cells with healthy stem cells. It may be considered for selected patients with certain high-risk, relapsed or treatment-resistant blood cancers.

• CAR T-Cell Therapy: CAR T-cell therapy is an advanced form of immunotherapy in which a patient's immune cells are modified to recognise and attack cancer cells. It is used for selected blood cancers, particularly certain relapsed or refractory diseases.

• Blood Transfusions: Some patients may require red blood cell or platelet transfusions during treatment when cancer or intensive therapy causes blood cell counts to fall significantly.

• Supportive Treatment: Medicines and other supportive measures may be used to manage infections, anaemia, nausea, pain and other complications associated with blood cancer or its treatment.

Oral Medications for Blood Cancer Treatment

There are several blood cancer medicines that come as tablets or capsules. The best option depends on the type of cancer and its molecular features. Some common oral treatments are:

• Imatinib: Used for certain blood cancers with specific genetic changes, including many cases of chronic myeloid leukaemia.

• Ibrutinib: A targeted medicine used for selected B-cell blood cancers.

• Venetoclax: May be prescribed for certain leukaemias and other blood cancers.

• Lenalidomide: Commonly used as part of treatment for multiple myeloma.

• Hydroxyurea: May be used for certain blood disorders and selected leukaemias.

• Dasatinib: Another targeted medicine used for certain cases of chronic myeloid leukaemia.

Ayurvedic and Alternative Treatment for Blood Cancer

Ayurvedic and other alternative therapies can be used to support standard medical treatment for blood cancer. Here are some common options:

• Panchakarma Therapy: Ayurvedic cleansing therapies may be used to support general well-being, digestion and recovery, depending on the patient's condition.

• Herbal and Rasayana Therapy: Herbs such as Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Tulsi, Guggul and Guduchi may be used in Ayurvedic care for their traditionally recognised supportive and rejuvenating properties.

• Ayurvedic Massage Therapies: Therapies such as Abhyanga may help promote relaxation and ease treatment-related fatigue or discomfort when considered appropriate.

Home Care for Blood Cancer

Care at home is an important part of maintaining strength and reducing avoidable complications during blood cancer treatment. Helpful measures include:

• Keep the home clean and well-ventilated to reduce exposure to infections.

• Stay away from raw or undercooked foods.

• Make sure to go to your blood tests and follow-up appointments as scheduled.

• Stay well hydrated.

• Try to stay away from people who are sick when your immune system is low.

• Monitor for fever, unusual bleeding or signs of infection.

Latest Treatment for Blood Cancer

Recent advances in blood cancer treatment include newer targeted therapies, immunotherapies and antibody-drug conjugates. These treatments are designed to target specific types of blood cancer or molecular changes more precisely. Newer treatment options have also expanded care for certain patients.

Quizartinib may be used for some people with FLT3-positive acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Momelotinib is an option for certain patients with myelofibrosis, while imetelstat may be considered for specific cases of lower-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). T-cell-engaging therapies have also added treatment options for some patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma.

How Long Does Blood Cancer Treatment Take?

The duration of treatment varies significantly between different types of blood cancer. Some treatments are completed over several months, while others involve long-term medicines or periodic treatment cycles. Here is the duration of each:

Side Effects of Blood Cancer Treatment

Some major side effects of blood cancer are as follows:

• Fatigue

• Nausea and vomiting

• Hair loss

• Reduced appetite

• Mouth sores

• Increased risk of infections

• Anaemia

• Easy bruising or bleeding

• Diarrhoea or constipation

• Skin reactions

• Numbness or tingling with some medicines

Lifestyle Changes During Blood Cancer Treatment

Some lifestyle and daily habits can cause major changes in recovery from blood cancer. Such useful measures include:

• Eat a balanced and nutritious diet.

• Maintain adequate protein and calorie intake.

• Drink enough fluids.

• Stay physically active according to your energy level and medical advice.

• Get adequate sleep and rest.

• Avoid smoking and tobacco.

• Limit alcohol consumption.

• Follow infection-prevention measures when immunity is low.

• Maintain good oral and personal hygiene.

• Keep all scheduled medical appointments.

Triggers That Can Worsen Symptoms of Blood Cancer Treatment

Several factors can worsen symptoms or make treatment-related side effects more difficult to manage during blood cancer treatment. Some of these include:

• Family history of certain blood cancers

• Exposure to high levels of radiation

• Previous chemotherapy or cancer treatment

• Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene

• Certain genetic or inherited conditions

• Some infections that affect the immune system

• Weakened immune system

• Increasing age

Blood Cancer Treatment Cost in India

The cost of blood cancer treatment in India generally ranges from ₹60,000 to ₹10 lakh and above and the expenses is recurrent. The overall expense can vary depending on the type of blood cancer, such as leukaemia, lymphoma or multiple myeloma, along with the stage of the disease, the patient's age, overall health and the treatment approach recommended.

Chemotherapy usually costs between ₹60,000 and ₹4 lakh. Targeted therapy or oral cancer medicines can range from ₹1.2 lakh to ₹6 lakh. Immunotherapy, which includes monoclonal antibodies and CAR-T supportive care, may cost about ₹2.5 lakh to ₹10 lakh. If needed, radiation therapy costs around ₹1 lakh to ₹3.5 lakh. Supportive care and long-term monitoring can add another ₹50,000 to ₹2 lakh to the total treatment cost.

Does Health Insurance Cover Blood Cancer Treatment in India?

Yes, many health insurance policies provide coverage for eligible blood cancer treatment, subject to the policy terms and conditions. Health insurance for blood cancer can help cover eligible treatment expenses such as hospitalisation, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, medicines and other related medical costs, subject to the applicable waiting period.

Some critical illness plans may also provide a lump-sum benefit for a covered blood cancer diagnosis, subject to the waiting period of 2-3 years and a specified survival period of 15-90 days as per the policy. There are also cancer-specific plans that may cover different types and stages of cancer. They may help cover eligible treatment expenses and provide additional financial support during the treatment period.

Coverage, waiting periods, exclusions and benefits can vary between plans. For comprehensive financial protection, consider health insurance plans with a minimum sum insured of ₹ 30 lakh, while ₹ 50 lakh or more should be considered for serious complications, prolonged treatment, or advanced medical care.