Cancer, caused by the uncontrolled mutation of healthy cells, can originate in any organ. When it starts in the bone marrow, it is called blood cancer or leukemia. The condition is classified into several types depending on which part of the blood it affects. Identifying the causes and symptoms of blood cancer in its early stages makes it possible for doctors to find treatments and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Causes and risk factors
The following factors can increase the risk of developing blood cancer:

Old age and gender
The risk is higher among older adults. Moreover, the number of cases is higher among men than women.

Exposure to chemicals
Exposure to toxic fumes is a primary trigger. Blood cancer is divided into several types, and chemical fumes elevate the risk. For example, benzene, a commonly used compound in the production and manufacturing industries, increases an adult’s risk of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Benzene is also a byproduct of industrial gases released in the atmosphere and is found in cleaning and painting supplies.

Family history
People with a family history of cancer are at a greater risk.

Genetic factors
Missing codes in the human DNA increase the risk of congenital defects or defects that develop during birth. Children born with Down or Bloom syndrome are at a higher risk of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL).

Exposure to radiation
Radiation used for treating certain cancers also increases the risk of blood cancer. Patients may develop ALL, AML, or chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) with repeated exposure.

Symptoms of blood cancer
While the signs can differ slightly depending on the type of leukemia, the following are the common symptoms to look out for:

Visible red spots
Blood cancer causes groups of tiny red spots called petechiae to appear on the skin, which are clearly visible.

Easy bleeding, bruising, and nosebleeds
Cuts and bruises with the slightest impact are signs of low platelets and reduced clotting ability, which could result from blood cancer. Nosebleeds without an underlying condition are also indicative of the disease. Due to these developing symptoms, one might suffer from frequent bone pain and muscle tenderness.

Weakness and fatigue
The red blood cells (RBCs) carry fresh oxygen from the lungs pumped by the heart to all body extremities. Blood cancer destroys healthy RBCs, leading to a lack of oxygen in the body and, thus, weakness and fatigue. Poor blood function also means the organs do not receive sufficient nutrients for optimum functioning.

Low immunity
Poor circulation also affects one’s overall immunity, making the body vulnerable to persistent infections. A high fever, chills, and a drop in fitness are all signs of compromised immunity.

Swelling
Cancer spreads using the lymph nodes around the body. Aggressive blood cancers result in the swelling of lymph nodes around vital organs. As it spreads, one might notice swelling in the neck, groin areas, and underarms, where major lymph nodes are located. The condition can also cause the spleen and liver to enlarge, as both organs are primarily responsible for blood purification.