Haematological (blood) cancer

Approximately 1200 people are diagnosed with haematological (blood) cancers in Western Australia each year.

These cancers include:

• acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)
• acute lymphocytic leukaemia (ALL)
• chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)
• chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)
• multiple myeloma (MM)
• Hodgkins lymphoma (HL)
• non-Hodgkins lymphoma (NHL).

Diagnosis

Most of these cancers will be diagnosed following a blood test. You are then required to see a haematologist and have a number of tests and scans to confirm diagnosis and extent of disease.

This could include a bone marrow biopsy or lymph node biopsy.

Treatment

For the majority of patients, treatment will take the form of chemotherapy. If you have NHL, HL or MM you may also need radiation therapy.

Each type of blood cancer is different and will require distinct types of chemotherapy regimens and follow-up.

Your haematologist may also modify your treatment depending upon your specific needs and current health status.

Treatment will involve a number of cycles of chemotherapy which can be given in an inpatient or outpatient setting.

Regular medical follow-up and blood tests are conducted as specified by your haematology consultant.

Some patients may go on to have a peripheral blood stem cell transplant or bone marrow transplant.

Helping you along your cancer journey

The Haematology Cancer Nurse Coordination Service is a free statewide service available to any person with a diagnosis of a haematological cancer.

Specialist haematological cancer nurses are available to:

• provide and explain information on your diagnosis and treatment
• refer you to other health care professionals, such as social workers and psychosocial services, where and when appropriate
• assist you and your family through treatment in all departments
• coordinate your care to ensure timeliness of appointments and treatments
• act as a central point of contact.

This service is available Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm.

Specialist haematological cancer nurses can be contacted on the following mobile numbers:

• 0400 023 562
• 0448 771 453.

More information

• Leukaemia Foundation
  Phone: 6241 1000
  Provides information and practical and emotional support for patients and families living with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and other blood disorders.
• Solaris Care
  Phone: 9346 7630
  Provides counselling and complementary therapies for cancer patients and their families.
• Cancer Council WA Helpline
  Phone: 13 11 20
  Provides, counselling, complementary therapies, support groups and financial assistance.
• WA Psycho-Oncology Service
  Phone: 9382 7480
  A clinical psychology service that offers a confidential, free counselling service to patients and families living with cancer.

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This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.