Regarding lymphoma, first of all, we need to correct a concept, the concept of “lymphoma” is not strict, the correct term should be lymphoma.
Lymphoma usually refers to lymphatic metastasis, such as cancer in the liver or lung, which will metastasize to the lymph nodes along the lymphatic vessels; and if the lymph nodes themselves have problems and become malignant, it is medically called lymphoma.
The occurrence of lymphoma is related to many factors
1.Pathogenic infection
Studies have proven that a variety of pathogens can cause lymphoma, for example, Helicobacter pylori can lead to gastric lymphoma and EBV can lead to nasal lymphoma
2.Genetic factors
If a relative in the family has lymphoma, the risk of developing lymphoma is about two times higher than that of the general population.
3.Unhealthy lifestyle
People in modern life are facing more and more pressure, so they gradually give up their healthy lifestyles, instead of working hard and staying up late, enjoying “junk food”, not eating breakfast, not loving sports, etc.
4. Environmental pollution, including air pollution and water pollution, is related to the occurrence of tumors.
In general, the causes of cancer are not completely clear, but it is definitely a combination of factors that interact with each other to promote the occurrence of cancer.
Which appearances of lymphoma? How do we know if we are suffering from lymphoma?
From the clinical point of view, the symptoms that are easier to perceive are as follows.
1. Fever
Body temperature over 38 degrees, lasting at least 3 days, and in some cases 1-2 weeks, or even 1 month.
2, false sweating
waking up at night in a cold sweat, even the pillowcase or sheets are soaked.
3.Loss of weight
Unexplained weight loss of more than 10% within six months.
4.Lymph node enlargement
The most important sign of lymphoma is swollen lymph nodes, especially superficial lymph nodes, most commonly in the neck, armpits and groin, which are usually more than 2-3 centimeters, at least as big as peanut rice, and in some cases as big as pigeon eggs.
It is important to note that swollen lymph nodes can occur in many diseases, for example, when you have a cold and fever, if the swollen lymph nodes we feel are only the size of a grain of rice and do not show progressive enlargement, then it is likely to be a normal reaction, that is, reactive lymph node hyperplasia, which usually does not require treatment, but if they increase rapidly, you need to seek medical attention in time.
Is lymphoma classified as benign or malignant?
All lymphomas are malignant as long as they are defined as lymphomas. Lymph node lesions such as lymph node enlargement, lymphitis, and reactive lymph node hyperplasia are all benign; however, as long as they are defined as lymphoma, they must be malignant.
Can I be cured of lymphoma? How long can I live?
Lymphoma has a relatively low incidence rate of less than 1 in 10,000 among all malignant tumors, and its prognosis is relatively good, with a cure rate of more than 50%, which means that more than half of the patients can be completely cured.
The World Health Organization has categorized lymphoma as a curable disease. As an example, the 2014 Beijing Health White Paper statistics show that the 5-year survival rate of lymphoma patients in Beijing is 38.57%.
How to prevent the occurrence of lymphoma in life?
1. Keep your mouth shut
Foods high in animal protein, saturated fat, eggs and cream increase the risk of developing lymphoma, while foods containing high fiber such as tomatoes, lettuce and cauliflower can reduce the risk of lymphoma.
We should adjust our dietary structure to match meat and vegetables, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, and eat less fried, smoked and baked foods. In addition, do not be picky and partial to eat, to master a good principle: like to eat a little less, do not like to eat a little less.
2.Move your legs
Overweight and obesity can increase the chance of lymphoma and other cancers. According to the recommendations of the Dietary Guidelines for Chinese Residents, on the basis of a nutritionally balanced diet, the daily activity should reach at least the standard of 6,000 steps.
3. Stay away from tobacco
Smokers have a 1.35 times higher risk of lymphoma than non-smokers, and those who have smoked for more than 20 years have a 1.84 times higher risk of lymphoma; while those who have quit smoking do not have an increased risk of developing lymphoma. It should be noted that passive smoking can also lead to an increased risk of lymphoma, with a 2.89-fold increase in the risk of lymphoma in those who have been passive smokers for more than 40 years.
4, soothe the mood, reduce stress
Usually pay attention to adjust the state, appropriate relaxation, avoid long-term strain.