What is blood cancer?
Blood cancer is what happens when something goes wrong with the DNA in the blood cell. These blood cells become abnormal, and multiply. These abnormal cells do not work properly, and so your blood is less able to carry out its role in keeping your body healthy, such as by fighting off infections or helping to repair your body.
How common is it?
250,000 people in the UK are living with blood cancer
41,000 people are diagnosed with blood cancer every year
40% of people diagnosed are aged 75 or over
Reason to hope
The five-year survival rate of blood cancer is about 70%. That means someone diagnosed with blood cancer is 70% as likely to be alive in five years as someone who doesn’t have cancer.*
A community that cares
The Exeter Leukaemia Fund (ELF) is a registered charity that provides vital support to patients with blood cancer in Devon.
We believe that every patient living with blood cancer is entitled to compassionate, tailored support throughout their journey – from initial diagnosis to treatment and beyond. Our services aim to lighten the load for patients and their families. They include, transport, counselling, accommodation, complementary therapies, advice and guidance, and legal services for you and your loved ones.
We are here for you!
click HERE to download Facts about Blood Cancer
*70% is the overall average for all types of blood cancer; different types have different survival rates.
*Facts about blood were provided by Blood Cancer UK and Exeter Leukaemia Fund