This month, we lift up every member of our community who carries the weight of a blood cancer diagnosis - and every family walking alongside them. September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month, and for us, it means more than a red ribbon. It means showing up for one another, learning what we can, and trusting that knowledge is a form of love.
Blood cancer ranks among the most common and life-threatening cancers affecting Americans today. Earlier diagnosis saves lives, and awareness makes earlier diagnosis possible. This month, we commit to spreading that awareness - within these walls and beyond them.
A Word for Our Community
Blood cancer touches Black Americans with particular force. Multiple myeloma, one of the three main blood cancer types, affects Black Americans at roughly twice the rate of white Americans. Black patients also tend to receive diagnoses at later stages, when treatment becomes more difficult. Knowing this calls us to action - schedule that checkup, ask those questions, and encourage the people you love to do the same.
What Is Blood Cancer?
Blood cancer refers to a group of cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. Three main types exist:
- Leukemia: Affects the blood and bone marrow by producing abnormal white blood cells.
- Lymphoma: Targets the lymphatic system, including the lymph nodes and vessels that fight infection.
- Myeloma: Impacts the plasma cells in the bone marrow, which produce antibodies to fight infections.
These cancers prevent the blood from performing its vital functions, including fighting infections and producing new cells, which weaken the body's immune system over time.
How Is Blood Cancer Diagnosed?
Early detection gives patients the strongest path forward. Several tests and procedures confirm a diagnosis:
- Blood tests: Check levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Abnormal levels signal a need for further evaluation.
- Bone marrow biopsy: A sample of bone marrow reveals whether abnormal cells are present.
- Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs show whether cancer has spread to other areas.
- Genetic testing: Identifies specific genetic mutations that may indicate cancer.
Signs and Symptoms
Blood cancer symptoms often resemble those of less severe conditions, which makes awareness so important. Common signs include:
- Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired and weak, even after rest.
- Frequent infections: A weakened immune system increases vulnerability to illness.
- Unexplained weight loss: Rapid weight loss with no change in diet or activity.
- Bruising or bleeding: Easy bruising or bleeding from gums or nose.
- Night sweats: Excessive sweating, particularly at night.
- Bone pain: Pain in bones or joints, especially the spine.
- Swollen lymph nodes: Painless swelling in the neck, armpits, or groin.
If any of these signs feel familiar, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Early conversation leads to earlier answers.
Taking Care of the Body God Gave You
Proactive health choices give your body its best foundation. Regular checkups - including routine blood tests and physical exams - catch changes early, when intervention carries the greatest impact. Staying active, eating well, and keeping a strong immune system all support your body's natural defenses. Reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, including benzene found in some industrial products, further protects your long-term health. Each healthy choice honors the life you carry.
A Closing Word
We have the assurance that we don’t face a diagnosis alone. We pray for those in treatment, for the caregivers holding families together, and for those still waiting on answers. May this month move us from awareness into action - scheduling appointments, checking on neighbors, and lifting one another in prayer. We are stronger together, and together, we will meet this moment.
"Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers."
- 3 John 1:2
Sources:
Blood Cancer United
International Myeloma Foundation
Lymphoma Research Foundation