I've just been told I have blood cancer

This information is for anyone who has just been diagnosed with blood cancer – whether it’s leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) or a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN).

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What you need to know first

When you find out you have blood cancer there can be a lot of information to take in. On this page, we cover the key things people have told us it's important to know first.

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What happens next?

Find out what happens next after you've been diagnosed with blood cancer including the tests and treatment you may have.

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Your risk of infection

If you've just been diagnosed with blood cancer, it's important to know you may have a higher risk of infection. Learn how to prevent risk of infection and what to do if you have coronavirus symptoms.

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Your emotions

Finding out you have blood cancer can have a big impact on your emotions. Find support around talking to your hospital team, telling other people and waiting for test results.

Everyday life

A blood cancer diagnosis can affect everyday life such as your job and study plans. Read more here about working, studying and where to get financial support.

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Blood cancer terms

People diagnosed with blood cancer often say that there’s a whole new language to learn. Here’s a guide to some common blood cancer terms you may come across.

Get the information you need

These pages aim to tell you what to expect, and where to get help when you need it. Your family and friends might want to read them too.

You might also want to order our booklet for anyone newly diagnosed with any blood cancer: Your blood cancer diagnosis: What happens now? Order free copies for yourself, your family and friends.

If someone you love has been diagnosed, you might find our information for family and friends helpful, including the Blood Cancer Heart to Heart podcast.

We also have specific information for young adults and information created with and for people affected by blood cancer in the Black community.

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Worried about anything or have questions?

If you need someone to talk to, please don't hesitate to contact our Support Service by phone or email.

Support for you

Our thanks

Thanks to consultant haematologists Dr Kevin Boyd and Dr Steven Knapper and clinical nurse specialists Vicki Kitchker and Kirsty Crozier for checking the medical content in this section. And thanks to Anita, Jacqueline, Precious, Quentin, Simone and Vij for their insights into what it's like to be diagnosed with blood cancer.