posted 5th September 2025
Shining a Light on the UK's Hidden Cancer
Each September, we come together to recognise Blood Cancer Awareness Month — a time to raise our voices, share stories, and deepen understanding of a disease that affects over 250,000 people in the UK today. In 2025, the campaign is more urgent than ever, as many people still don’t realise that blood cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the UK, and the third biggest cancer killer.
Despite the numbers, blood cancer remains underrepresented in public conversation. It doesn’t get the same spotlight as other high-profile cancers, and its symptoms can often be vague — making early diagnosis difficult. This month, we’re aiming to change that.
What is Blood Cancer?
Blood cancer is not a single disease but a group of cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system. The main types include:
- Leukaemia
- Lymphoma
- Myeloma
- Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)
- Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN)
These diseases interfere with the production and function of healthy blood cells, weakening the immune system and affecting vital bodily functions.
Spotting the Signs
One of the greatest challenges with blood cancer is recognition. Many symptoms can be mistaken for more common illnesses. These include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats
- Bruising or bleeding easily
- Recurrent infections
- Bone or joint pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms without a clear cause, it’s vital to speak to a GP and request a blood test. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference.
The Human Impact
Behind every diagnosis is a story. In the UK, someone is diagnosed with blood cancer every 14 minutes. That’s over 38 people every day whose lives are suddenly turned upside down.
From children with acute leukaemia to older adults facing chronic forms of the disease, blood cancer doesn’t discriminate. And while treatments continue to improve — including stem cell transplants, immunotherapy, and targeted drugs — many patients face lifelong battles.
Charities such as Blood Cancer UK, Anthony Nolan, Leukaemia Care, and Myeloma UK work tirelessly to support patients, fund research, and advocate for better services. But they can’t do it alone.
How You Can Help This September
Raising awareness is the first step. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Learn the symptoms and share them on social media. A simple post could save a life.
- Donate to a blood cancer charity or set up a monthly gift.
- Give blood or register as a stem cell donor – especially if you’re from a minority ethnic background, where matching donors are urgently needed.
- Wear red to show your support and spark conversations.
- Host a fundraiser – from coffee mornings to sponsored runs, every pound helps.
Let’s Talk About It
Blood cancer is often invisible — but those living with it are not. By talking about it, we break down stigma, encourage early action, and support vital research. Blood Cancer Awareness Month is not just a date in the diary — it’s a chance to change outcomes and save lives.
So this September, wear red, raise awareness, and be part of the movement. Because the more we know, the faster we act, and the closer we come to beating blood cancer.