Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
On September 15, Quironsalud Malaga Hospitals and Marbella Hospitals are raising awareness of lymphoma. This is a blood cancer that affects approximately 15 adults out of 100,000 annually. There have also been breakthroughs in non-chemotherapy treatments.
Dr Agustin Hernández, the head of haematology in both hospitals, emphasizes that it is important to understand this diverse group cancers that originate from lymphocytes. Immune system cells. According to him, “Lymphomas are not benign, but can be fatal, and this includes both Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s types.”
Lymphoma is often not detected until it has reached a late stage. Symptoms include persistent swelling of the lymph nodes, fever without explanation, night sweats or fatigue. Dr Hernandez urges people who are experiencing these symptoms, to get medical help immediately. Early diagnosis can be crucial.
Recent advances have revolutionised the treatment of lymphoma, shifting away from traditional chemotherapy to innovative “chemofree” therapies. CAR T cell therapy, bispecific antibodies and anti-CD30 for non-Hodgkin and checkpoint inhibitions for Hodgkin have improved outcomes. Dr Hernandez says that these treatments have changed the way patients are treated, giving them hope when they had previously only limited options. The treatment plan now includes personalised therapies that are tailored to the tumour’s molecular and biological profile, as well as the patient’s needs. This reduces toxicity and improves survival rates and the quality of life.
Over the last 30 years, survival rates have more than doubled for patients with lymphoma. Over 80 per cent are now cured of Hodgkin Lymphoma in advanced stages with first-line therapy, and those with non-Hodgkin non-Hodgkin cancers often have long-term survival rates with a high quality of life. Even aggressive, chemotherapy-resistant cases are seeing improved prognoses thanks to CAR-T and bispecific therapies.
Even with these improvements, there are challenges. Priorities include ensuring equitable access to the latest treatments and reducing their cost. Dr Hernandez also stresses the importance of clinical research. Trials provide early access innovative therapies and advance progress, he says. Complementary methods like individualized physical activity and good nutrition are essential for better patient outcomes. World Lymphoma Awareness Day is fast approaching, but the focus remains on research, accessibility and personalised care in order to improve lives.
