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We're here for you if you want to talk

0808 2080 888

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We're here for you if you want to talk

0808 2080 888

[email protected]

Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects blood cells called lymphocytes. For most people Hodgkin lymphoma can be cured with treatment.

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What is Hodgkin lymphoma?

Hodgkin lymphoma affects blood cells called lymphocytes, which help to fight infection. Most people diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma have a type called classic Hodgkin lymphoma.
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Hodgkin lymphoma causes

Hodgkin lymphoma is caused by changes in our DNA. We don't know why these changes happen, but there are some risk factors that make people more likely to develop Hodgkin lymphoma.
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Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms

The most common symptom of Hodgkin lymphoma is swollen lymph nodes, but some people have other symptoms too. Read about possible symptoms, and what to do if you're worried.
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Diagnosis and staging

The main test to diagnose Hodgkin lymphoma is a lymph node biopsy. If a diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor will arrange more tests and scans to check your general health and to decide what stage lymphoma you have.
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Hodgkin lymphoma prognosis

Your doctor can talk to you about your individual prognosis (what's likely to happen). For most people, treatment leads to a cure, even if they are diagnosed at an advanced stage.
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Hodgkin lymphoma treatment

Find out how Hodgkin lymphoma treatment is planned, the different types of treatment, and possible side effects.
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Life after Hodgkin lymphoma

Finishing treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma is a big achievement, but can bring mixed emotions. Learn about what to expect in the weeks and months after treatment ends, and how you might feel.
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Young adults

Hodgkin lymphoma is one of the most common types of cancer in young adults. If you're a young adult, read our guide to life with blood cancer, and watch other young people share their experiences and tips on how to get through it.
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Hodgkin lymphoma stories

Read the stories of people who've been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. Hear how they coped with the diagnosis, treatment, work, finances, side effects and more.
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Get support

It's never easy hearing you have cancer, but we're here to support you. If you've just been diagnosed, sign up to our weekly support email.

Looking for printed information?

Order free copies of our Hodgkin lymphoma booklet for you, your family and friends, including tips from people who have had Hodgkin lymphoma.

"Don't be afraid to take up the support that's on offer. It's there to be used and it can really help. If you're not sure what's available, ask your nurse or call a helpline like Blood Cancer UK."

Jade, diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2018.

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This information about Hodgkin lymphoma is accredited with the PIF TICK, the UK's only quality mark for trusted health information.

Last full review July 2024. Next full review due July 2027. We may make factual updates to the information between reviews.

We would like to thank Consultant Haematologists Dr David Tucker and Dr Dima El-Sharkawi for checking the clinical accuracy of this information, and Clinical Nurse Specialist Tina Brooks for her guidance and support. Thank you also to Emily, Helen, Jade, Lawrence, Louise, Nabeela, Nadine, Ritesh and Stephen for supporting this project and sharing their experience of living with Hodgkin lymphoma.