World Lymphoma Awareness Day

Lymphoma is the 5th most common type of cancer in the UK. It is a cancer of the lymphocytes which are a type of white blood cell that fights infection. Lymphoma develops when the lymphocytes become out of control. It can occur at any age, even in children.

There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Hodgkin lymphoma affects around 2,100 people each year in the UK, whilst more than 13,000 people are diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma during the same time period.

World Lymphoma Awareness Day falls on the 15th September each year, and aims to raise awareness and help people recognise the signs and symptoms in order to seek treatment, s well as the wider impacts of living with lymphoma.

Symptoms of lymphoma can include:

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Fatigue

• Unexplained weight loss

• Infections

• Sweats

• Itching

• Fever

• Abdominal swelling

• Chest pain

• Difficulty swallowing

Speak to your GP if you are concerned about any of these symptoms.

Whilst the exact causes are unknown, your risk of developing the condition is increased if:

• you have a medical condition that weakens your immune system

• you take immunosuppressant medicine

• you've previously been exposed to a common virus called the Epstein-Barr virus, which causes glandular fever