“Lymphoma” is known as the general term used for the cancer affecting your lymphatic system- the network of tissues, vessels and organs that helps your body shield itself against infections. Lymphoma majorly affects the lymph nodes, while occasionally can spur out to damage the thymus gland & the spleen. In leyman terms, it caused by the abnormal growth of the lymphocytes (or the White Blood Cells) and is the sixth most common form of cancer across the globe.
Lymphoma can attain many different forms to harm the body:
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma:
This manifestation of Lymphoma, also known as the Hodgkin’s Disease, is marked by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells- which are large and abnormal lymphocytes. The HL tends to originate in the upper part of the human body, specifically the neck, chest and the armpits. The Hodkin tends to affects people lying between ages of 20 to 30, but is still considered the most curable form of cancer. Despite this high curability, it can leave patients with long-term effects which include:
Infertility
Risk of secondary cancers or toxicities to vital organs
Non-Hodkin’s Lymphoma (NHL):
This form of lymphoma arises due to rapid and abnormal growths of the lymphocytes all over the body, and is thus considered unpredictable due to its random and unforeseen outbursts of mutation in the blood cells. The NHL is not bound to a specific region of the body, and can arise anywhere in the lymph nodes. It tends to affect people over the age of 55, particularly the age group of 60-74. The effects are treatment are quite similar to the Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
HOW DOES IT OCCUR IN THE HUMAN BODY?
Lymphoma originates when the lymphocytes in your lymphatic system mutate rapidly into ever-growing cancer cells- that do not die even after the biologicak operations of the NK cells. A majority of the genetic mutations that cause this disease in the first place happen spontaneously, without a traceable cause.
In simple words, Lymphoma originates if the DNA inside a lymphocyte changes in a way that tells it to stop responding to the signals that usually keep it under control.
DNA mutations occur all the time. Most of the time they’re completely harmless but once in a while they can affect critical genes. If more than one critical gene is affected in a certain combination, it can lead to the development of lymphoma.
WHO ARE MORE LIKELY TO BE DIAGNOSED WITH IT?
Scientists estimate that a person affected by the following diseases or conditions is at a higher risk of developing lymphoma:
You have or have had a history of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), Epstein-Barr (mononucleosis) and Kaposi sarcoma infections.
Your immune system is weakened by other conditions or medical treatments, such as organ transplants- where the donatees take immunosuppressant medication to keep their bodies from rejecting the transplanted organ.
You have or have had an autoimmune disease- where your immune system accidentally attacks your body instead of protecting it.
Your family has had a history of lymphoma.
COMMON INDICATORS OF LYMPHOMA:
Lymphoma is often preceded by the following symptoms:
Frequent fevers, generally higher than 103°F or 39.5°C
Formation of painless lumps in the neck, armpits & groin
Swelling on parts of the face or the neck
Breathlessness or dyspnea
Unexpected and intensified weight-loss
Persistent feelings of fatigue, despite adequate rest
WHEN TO CONSULT A DOCTOR:
➔ If you notice painless swelling of the lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, or groin that persists for more than 2 weeks, it is generally advised to consult a medical professional.
➔ Unexplained abdominal pain, swelling or feeling of fullness- which is often a result of enlarged lymph nodes or other abdominal issues- is also an indicator to consult a doctor
TIPS FOR A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE:
Obesity is a phenomenon associated with different types of cancers and other diseases, including lymphoma. Aim to maintain a healthy and reseaonable weight.
Focus on consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. A diet rich in such antioxidants and nutrients can support a healthy immune system- minimizing the risk of lymphoma and similar diseases.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week. Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and boost your immune system.
Some infections, such as the EBV, HTLV-1 and H. pylori bacteria, have been linked to an increased risk of certain types of lymphoma. Practice good hygiene, get vaccinated as recommended, and take precautions to avoid exposure to infectious agents.
SOURCES:
https://lymphoma-action.org.uk/about-lymphoma-what-lymphoma/causes-and-risk-fact ors-lymphoma#:~:text=Causes%20of%20lymphoma,causes%20stomach%20ulcers%20a nd%20indigestion.
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