By Blood Cancer United
There are more than 100 types of blood cancer—affecting the cells that help keep our bodies nourished, protected, and functioning well. Because symptoms can sometimes be subtle or easily mistaken for other conditions, many people may not recognize early signs or understand who can be affected. Learning about blood cancer isn’t about creating worry; it’s about becoming more aware of how our bodies work and understanding changes that might deserve attention.
Awareness also empowers us to support the people in our lives who may be living with or in remission from blood cancer. The more we know, the better we can navigate conversations, offer meaningful support, and feel confident seeking guidance from health professionals when something doesn’t feel right.
Take the quiz below to check what you already know or discover a few new things. A few quick questions can go a long way in strengthening your understanding of blood cancer and the signs worth paying attention to.
Take the blood cancer quiz
Question 1: Which of the following is not considered a type of blood cancer?
A. Leukemia
B. Lymphoma
C. Myeloma
D. Melanoma
Question 1 answer: D
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer and can sometimes be confused with myeloma. Leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are the five main types of blood cancer, and each one also contains subtypes—amounting to more than 100 types of blood cancer altogether!
Question 2: True or false: Some blood cancers might be found during routine blood tests, even if a person doesn’t feel unwell.
A. True
B. False
Question 2 answer: A
Some types of blood cancer might first appear as abnormal blood counts. However, the tests needed to diagnose blood cancer depend on the patient’s signs, symptoms, and other medical history. A complete blood count (CBC) test—typically routine—is used to count the numbers of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in a blood sample. Other tests might include bone marrow tests, lymph node biopsy, urine tests, other blood tests, or imaging tests.
Question 3: Blood cancer begins in the...
A. Heart
B. Blood-forming cells of the bone marrow or the immune system
C. Lungs
D. Liver
Question 3 answer: B
Blood cancers arise from cells that play roles in blood production or immune function. Blood cancers can actually develop in many different places during normal blood cell formation. The type of blood cancer has to do with where the normal cell development is blocked.
Question 4: A common early symptom of blood cancer is:
A. Persistent fatigue
B. Clear skin
C. Sudden improvement in vision
D. Rapid hair regrowth
Question 4 answer: A
Fatigue is a frequent symptom, along with things like unintentional weight loss, fever, night sweats, and swollen lymph nodes. However, the specific signs and symptoms of blood cancer depend on the type, and some symptoms are similar to other common and less severe illnesses. Specific tests are needed to make a blood cancer diagnosis.
Question 5: True or false: Advances in treatment mean many people with blood cancer can live longer, fuller lives.
A. True
B. False
Question 5 answer: A
Today, there are many treatment options—including targeted therapies and immunotherapies—that help people manage different types of blood cancer. Many people are also cured. Treatment options vary for different types of blood cancer and may depend on several factors including: diagnosis and subtype, genetic analysis, patient age, patient overall health, and if the disease is either relapsed or refractory.
How’d you do?
If you got 5/5, you’re a Blood Cancer Hero
Congratulations! You’ve got the basics down. Your strong awareness can help you feel more confident supporting your own health and the people around you.
Take your knowledge even further by exploring Blood Cancer United’s booklets, which offer more in‑depth information on specific blood cancers and treatments.
If you got 4/5: Almost-There Aficionado
Impressive! You know your stuff. You have a strong understanding and are just a step away from the top. A bit more learning will strengthen your awareness even further!
Build on what you know by listening to our podcast, The Bloodline with Blood Cancer United! Listen in as experts and patients guide listeners in understanding diagnosis, treatment, and resources available to blood cancer patients.
If you got 3/5: On-The-Right-Track Thinker
Good job! You’re building a good foundation and asking the right questions. With just a little more insight, you’ll feel even more confident recognizing important blood cancer information.
Check out Blood Cancer United’s videos and webcasts, which break down complex topics in an easy-to-follow way—great for visual learners.
If you got 2/5, you’re the New Kid on the Block
You’re here and you're just getting started! Every bit of learning matters. Keep going—you’re on the right track.
Download Blood Cancer United’s free guide to Understanding Blood Cancer. Learn about the five main types, including how they’re diagnosed and treated. This comprehensive guide also includes a glossary of terms and question guides!
If you got 1/5, you’re a Blood Cancer Beginner
We can help you grow your knowledge! This is the perfect place for you to be. You’re taking a meaningful first step in understanding blood cancer.
Begin with Blood Cancer United’s introductory patient resources, which offer approachable, beginner-friendly overview of blood cancer, treatment basics, and support services.
To learn more about blood cancer, explore our educational resources, read our blog, or get involved with Blood Cancer United!
We’re all about blood cancer. So people with blood cancer can be about everything else.
