Blood cancers and blood disorders

Being diagnosed with blood cancer or a blood disorder can be a stressful and worrying time for both you and your loved ones. Many people become anxious about an uncertain future, but others can feel a sense of relief that their recent health problems have been recognised and treatment can start. Everybody reacts to news like this in their own way and it can take some people longer than others to come to terms with their situation.

You might have had a recent diagnosis and you’re now looking for information about different treatments. You might be a concerned partner, family member or friend who is trying to plan ahead for the future. No matter what your situation, we are here to help and answer your questions about stem cell or bone marrow transplants.   

The good news is that there are lots of treatments for blood cancers and blood disorders that can ease your symptoms and prevent your condition progressing. However, if they are unsuccessful or if your medical team decides it is best, they will discuss the option of you having a stem cell transplant.

This section focuses on some of the more common types of blood cancers and blood disorders. It will give you a better understanding of your situation and hopefully answer some of your most important questions including: 

• What is blood cancer?
• What is a blood disorder?
• What are my treatment options?

If you already know that you need a stem cell transplant our Understanding Stem Cell Transplants section will tell you everything you need to know about the process. There’s also a handy video that explains how we find stem cell donors.

‘Looking back, I had loads of symptoms but made excuses for them. I put my tiredness down to long shifts at work and being busy – and in reality, I had acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).’
Matthew, who had a transplant in 2015. You can read his story here