Hodgkin Lymphoma Offers High Cure Rates If Diagnosed Early, Experts Say
Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system, characterized by the malignant transformation of lymphocytes, which are immune cells that protect against infections. The disease typically presents as swollen lymph nodes, especially around the neck, chest, armpits, abdomen, or groin. However, it can also affect other organs such as the lungs, liver, or bones due to the spread of malignant cells.
Dr. Avraham Avigdor, head of the Hematology Institute at Sheba Medical Center, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, noting that the disease is highly curable when detected promptly. Current cure rates range between 80 and 85 percent, depending on the stage at diagnosis. Early symptoms warrant immediate medical consultation and include persistent swollen lymph nodes, prolonged cough or chest pain, high fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and long-lasting itching.
Diagnostic procedures typically involve chest X-rays or CT scans, followed by referral to a hematologist. Treatment varies by disease stage; early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma is usually treated with chemotherapy alone or combined with radiation, while advanced stages require a combination of chemotherapy and drug therapies. Recent breakthroughs include targeted biological therapies that deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells, minimizing side effects, and immunotherapy that activates the immune system against tumor cells. These innovations have improved cure rates and can reduce the duration and intensity of chemotherapy, lessening the impact on patients' quality of life.
Dr. Avigdor also highlights a tendency among some patients, particularly in the Haredi community, to delay seeking medical advice due to concerns about family, work, or stigma, which can lead to diagnosis at more advanced stages and poorer outcomes. He urges anyone experiencing symptoms or noticing swollen lymph nodes to promptly consult a family physician for evaluation. Early detection remains critical for successful treatment and recovery.
