Lymphomas are a group of cancers of the lymphatic system. Lymphomas affect both men and women. The most common types of lymphomas are Hodgkin’s lymphoma (nodal type), non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and B-cell lymphoma. The cause of lymphoma is unknown. Lymphomas can be treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination of the two.
Survival Rate of Lymphoma
People diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma can survive for many years with treatment. However, the five-year survival rate is only around 50%. The outlook is often determined by the stage of Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
People who have stage 1 or 2 Hodgkin’s lymphoma can often live for a decade or longer with treatment.
Treatment of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
There is no cure for Hodgkin’s lymphoma. However, the cancer can be treated to extend the time you are able to live with cancer. Your treatment will be based on your specific symptoms and medical condition.
Lymphoma treatment options include:
- Chemotherapy – Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that kills cancer cells by damaging the DNA inside the cells. It is given to Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients who have advanced Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Because Hodgkin’s lymphoma cells have normal DNA, they are vulnerable to chemotherapy.
- Radiation therapy – Radiation therapy uses high levels of ionizing radiation to kill cancer cells that are not protected by their own shielding. It is used in Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients who have stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma.