WLAD 2008

World Lymphoma Awareness Day (WLAD) is held globally every year on September 15th. The Lymphoma Coalition, which the Leukaemia & Blood Foundation are a member of, aim to increase awareness about this little known cancer.  

Lymphoma is increasing in incidence in New Zealand, this is in line with increases seen globally.

Despite this few New Zealanders have heard of lymphoma although it is the sixth most common cancer in the country affecting about 800 people every year. Certain types of lymphoma can kill in as little as six months.

Click here to find out more about lymphoma.

Lymphoma, a cancer of the immune system, has an incidence rate four times higher than cervical cancer and kills more people than melanoma. We are all aware of the need for regular smear tests and sun protection, yet only 2% of New Zealanders know to act on the symptoms of this potentially fatal cancer.

For more information about WLAD, click here.