SE Texas Times

Each year, September is designated as Blood Cancer Awareness Month. This initiative aims to educate communities and draw attention to the fight against blood cancer. According to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS), blood cancers are the third leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. and are most common among children, adolescents, and young adults. Early detection is often crucial for treatment success.

In 2024, it is estimated that 187,740 people will be diagnosed with blood cancer. Additionally, every three minutes, one person in the U.S. is diagnosed with a blood cancer. Various types of cancers can affect the bone marrow, blood cells, lymph nodes, and other parts of the lymphatic system. These include leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Each main type has more specific forms.

Leukemia and lymphoma are the most common types of blood cancers. The American Cancer Society notes that leukemia primarily affects white blood cells but can start in other cell types. Leukemia is categorized based on its growth rate and origin within the body. Lymphoma starts in cells that are part of the immune system. Different treatments exist for each type of leukemia and lymphoma, underscoring the importance of accurate diagnosis.

Recognizing early detection's role in successful treatment outcomes, the Texas Legislature has prioritized improving patient access to treatments. House Bill 21 from the 85th legislative session, known as the “Right to Try Act,” allows patients with terminal illnesses increased access to potentially life-saving treatments. The legislature also allocated additional resources towards cancer research and prevention programs through initiatives like the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT). In the 86th legislative session, members passed HB 39 to remove time limitations on CPRIT grant awards.

For more information about blood cancer and Blood Cancer Awareness Month, visit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at https://www.lls.org/. Additional risk factors and prevention information can be found on the Cancer Society's website.

For legislative details or further inquiries regarding this week's article content, contact State Representative Todd Hunter’s Capitol Office at 512-463-0672 or District Office at 361-949-4603.

– State Representative Todd Hunter

Rep. Hunter represents Aransas County and part of Nueces County. He can be reached at todd.hunter@house.state.tx.us or at 512-463-0672.