For Students

"Lymphoma is the most common type of blood cancer.  Specifically, lymphoma is a cancer that affects lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Lymphocytes travel through the blood and lymphatic system to defend the body against foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses.  Lymphomas usually develop when a change, or mutation, occurs within a lymphocyte, causing the abnormal cell to replicate faster than, or live longer than, a normal lymphocyte. Like normal lymphocytes, cancerous lymphocytes can travel through the blood and lymphatic system and spread and grow in many parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and other organs."

               -The Lymphoma Research Foundation

               Learn more here.

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What is adolescent and young adult lymphoma, and why is it important?

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People between the ages of 15-39 are considered to be adolescents or young adults (AYA). One in five cancer diagnoses within this population are lymphoma.

Lymphoma is by far the most common type of blood cancer, and one of the most common cancers in young people. So why is this not talked about more? Adolescents and young adults are more likely to blow off potential symptoms, not get regular check-ups, not associate themselves with cancer because of perceived invincibility ("because I'm young, it can't happen to me" mentality), and overall have lack of knowledge on cancer and health as a whole. 

Adolescent and young adult lymphoma has a unique set of issues that makes raising awareness and education extremely important. Some of the challenges AYA may face with a lymphoma diagnosis are:

• Biological changes and other health problems arising--because AYA bodies are still growing and changing, a lymphoma diagnosis could raise other issues

• Self-image problems and identity crises

• Financial hardships

• Developing a treatment plan and heavy appointment schedules

• Potentially changing relationships with family members, friends, partners, and peers

• Changing school and work schedules

• Emotional effects

Knowledge is power when it comes to AYA lymphoma, which is why it is so important to educate, raise awareness, and promote the Lymphoma Research Foundation's important resources. It could lead to AYA catching lymphoma early, being more aware of symptoms shown by people around them, and possibly saving lives.

All information above comes directly from the Lymphoma Research Foundation.

Learn more here.