World Lymphoma Awareness Day

World Lymphoma Awareness Day (WLAD) is a global event observed every year on 15 September.

WLAD is an international effort to raise much-needed awareness about lymphoma. The LBF is a member of the international Lymphoma Coalition which aims to raise awareness about lymphoma. 

Lymphoma is increasing in incidence globally; an increase which is reflected in New Zealand. Lymphoma has an incidence rate that is more than four times higher than cervical cancer and kills more people than melanoma in NZ. Certain types of lymphoma can be fatal in as little as six months.

Join and help raise awareness

Post a message on Facebook We invite patients and their families to share stories with others going through similar life experiences. Join the national conversation, post a message on the LBF’s Facebook page.

Tell your story on YouTube We have found that so many draw comfort and benefit greatly from reading about the experiences of others. Share your story of living with lymphoma on the LBF’s YouTube channel.

Take the know your nodes quiz Many of us have heard of lymph nodes and know they are somewhere in the body, but beyond that, we just don’t “Know our Nodes.” Take our fun quiz and find out how much you know about your nodes. Learn a little more about the lymphatic system, one we can’t live without. Take the quiz and watch the video here. 

Resources

Initial diagnosis of lymphoma can be difficult. The symptoms of lymphoma are often mistaken for less serious illnesses such as flu, fatigue or glandular fever. It is essential that the disease is recognised early because, if treated appropriately, some types of lymphoma can be cured.

• Early Diagnosis and Referral of Lymphoma is Critical – article by Drs. Ken Bradstock and Peter Browett
• Is Lymphoma on Your Radar? – a decision support tool
• Understanding Lymphoma – A4 tear off pad
• Understanding Lymphoma – wall poster
• Tom has Lymphoma – children’s book
• Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma patient information booklets
• Know your nodes – online quiz

Research

In New Zealand, lymphoma is the sixth most common cancer, with about 800 people being diagnosed every year. Despite this, market research shows that many of us have either not heard of lymphoma or don’t know what lymphoma is.

• A 2008 telephone survey (of 501 interviews) conducted across 15 different regions showed that 89% of New Zealanders could not correctly identify lymphoma.

• A 2010 nationwide survey (with 800 respondents) showed that only 12% of New Zealanders were able to identify lymphoma as a blood cancer.

The LBF can help patients and their families living with lymphoma receive the information and support they need. For more information, please contact your local Support Services Coordinator on 0800 15 10 15 or by email info@leukaemia.org.nz.