Every day 6 children and adults in New Zealand are diagnosed with a blood cancer like leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma or a related blood condition.
There are an estimated 21,000 people living with blood cancer or a related condition in New Zealand.
Blood cancers combined (leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma) are the fifth most common form of cancer in New Zealand
Leukaemia is the most common childhood cancer while lymphoma is the most common cancer in 15 – 24 year-olds.
The cause of blood cancers is unknown.
These diseases can strike anyone, of any age, at any time, without warning.
Immediate treatment may be necessary and that treatment can go on for months or even years.
A diagnosis of a blood cancer can have far-reaching consequences. A diagnosis can change a person’s life overnight and has a huge impact on the patients, their family, friends and their income.