Blood Cancer

Blood cancer can get diagnosed at any age, though it most commonly affects older adults. Blood cancers account for about 10 percent of all cancers diagnosed annually in the United States.

The treatment options have significantly improved in recent years, making many types of blood cancer very treatable.

Choose UM Upper Chesapeake Health for Blood Cancer Care

Selecting the right care for cancer is a critical decision, and we know how important it is to feel confident in your medical team. At UM Upper Chesapeake Health's Kaufman Cancer Center, you will get comprehensive cancer care designed to meet the individual needs of each patient and provided by experts who are highly skilled in treating blood cancer.

You will be supported throughout your care by our cancer specialists, nurse navigator and social workers in a comfortable and nurturing environment right here in Harford County. We’ll help you through all phases of treatment.

You’ll also have access to wellness services like support groups, nutrition guidance and fitness classes.

If you are facing a blood cancer diagnosis, call us at 443-643-3350. 

Types of Blood Cancers

Blood cancers primarily affect the blood, bone marrow and lymphatic system. The most common blood cancers are:

• Leukemia – cancer of the blood that causes the rapid production of abnormal white blood cells
• Lymphoma – cancer of the lymph nodes, bone marrow and spleen that occurs when white blood cells become cancerous
• Myeloma – cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow that causes these cells to grow uncontrollably and crowd normal blood-producing cells

Blood Cancer Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of blood cancers can vary greatly by type and stage, but may often include:

• Fatigue or weakness that does not improve with rest and sleep
• Unexpected weight loss
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Pain in the bones, joints or abdomen

Blood cancers may also cause night sweats and changes in the skin—symptoms that are frequently experienced during menopause, making it very important for women to pay close attention to changes in their body and discuss anything unusual with their doctor.

Blood tests, imaging and a physical exam are the primary methods used to diagnose blood cancer. In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis.

Blood Cancer Treatment

New advancements in treatment have significantly improved outcomes for people with blood cancer. Depending on the type of blood cancer, its stage and the patient’s overall health, treatment will often include chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted therapy (drugs that specifically target cancer cells while preserving healthy ones).

If immunotherapy and a stem cell transplant are part of the treatment plan, patients can access these services at University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Your oncologist will discuss your treatment options and design a plan of care to maximize effectiveness. They’ll suggest lifestyle changes (diet and exercise) and supportive therapies (massage and acupuncture) to help reduce side effects and boost overall wellness during cancer care.

Our Hematology and Oncology Team

Our experienced hematologists, medical oncologists and radiation therapy team treat various blood cancers and benign blood disorders. They help patients understand their diagnosis and are fully committed to delivering the most advanced and best possible treatment.