Each September, Blood Cancer Awareness Month turns the world red to highlight one of the most prevalent and dangerous forms of cancer—blood cancer. This global event aims to raise awareness of blood cancer’s impact on individuals and communities, emphasizing the urgent need for increased action, early diagnosis, and enhanced support for those affected by the disease.

Understanding blood cancer

Blood cancer is an umbrella term for a complex group of cancers, including lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma, which can affect anyone at any age. Despite over a million people receiving a blood cancer diagnosis each year globally, public awareness remains alarmingly low. A recent survey revealed that only about one in three people can recall blood cancer when asked to name a type of cancer. This lack of awareness can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, which are critical factors in the successful management of these diseases.

Over the past three decades, the number of newly diagnosed leukemia patients has increased by 45% globally, underscoring the growing prevalence of blood cancers. With such significant numbers, the need for awareness and education has never been more critical. Blood Cancer Awareness Month, established in 2010, has become a crucial platform for educating the public, sharing stories of those affected, and advocating for more research and better treatment options.

Menarini at the frontline for blood cancer research

One of the critical aspects of Blood Cancer Awareness Month is celebrating the advancements in treatment and research. Menarini Group, together with Stemline, a Menarini Group company, is at the forefront of this effort, and is committed to developing new therapies to address the unmet medical needs of patients with rare and seriously debilitating diseases. Among the Group’s key areas are numerous types of blood cancer, including Multiple Myeloma, Acute Myeloid Leukemia, and Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm (BPDCN), among others.

“I am grateful for the incredible teamwork and partnership between our dedicated team and the blood cancer community. Together, we’re making a difference by bringing innovative treatments to those who need them most.” says Ira Gupta, Senior Vice President & Global Head of Clinical Development and Medical Affairs – Hematology at Menarini Stemline

Blood Cancer Awareness Month is a global movement that belongs to everyone – patients, families, healthcare providers, researchers, and advocates. It’s a time to come together, share stories, and spread the message far and wide: This Is Blood Cancer.

By raising awareness and supporting research, we can improve early diagnosis, advance treatment options, and ensure that everyone affected by blood cancer feels supported and understood. September is our opportunity to make a difference, to show solidarity with those battling blood cancer, and to work towards a future where this disease no longer claims lives.