Know Your Nodes
We may think we know our bodies pretty well, but when it comes to the lymphatic system, Australians don’t know their nodes!
Visit http://www.knowyournodes.org/index.php to take the quiz and find out what you do or don’t know about one of the body’s most important systems.
SAMPLE PATIENT QUOTE: “Before I was diagnosed with lymphoma, I had no idea what my lymph nodes did for my body, but they are part of an important system that helps prevent infection and disease”. Austarlians need to know their nodes – both the lymphatic system and the signs and symptoms of lymphoma. If signs and symptoms are detected early, there is a better chance for quicker diagnosis, treatment and overall survival.”
According to a global survey conducted by the Lymphoma Coalition, a non-profit network of international lymphoma patient groups, over half (55 per cent) of people living with lymphoma had never heard of this cancer before they were diagnosed, and almost half (43 per cent) of patients did not understand, or only partially understood what they were told by their doctors upon diagnosis.
The symptoms of lymphoma can be very similar to those of other less serious conditions like the flu, and therefore it is vital that anyone who is concerned about prolonged symptoms such as swelling in the neck, underarm region or groin, weight loss and tiredness speaks to their doctor.
Think You Know Your Nodes?
Know Your Nodes is a global initiative of the Lymphoma Coalition, launching on World Lymphoma Awareness Day in nearly 30 countries across the world. The campaign was built on the insight that Australians know little about their lymphatic system, and in turn, lymphoma.
By visiting http://www.knowyournodes.org/index.php Australians can take the Know Your Nodes quiz to test their knowledge and learn more about their lymph nodes, lymphatic system and lymphoma. Questions include:
A lymph node is the size and shape of a:
- Pin head - 1 mm
- Ladybug - 5 mm
- Jelly bean - 1 cm
- Plum - 5 cm
If the lymphatic system was a superhero, what would it be fighting?
- Infection and cancer
- Lymph
- Fatigue
- Hunger and thirst
The lymph nodes work like a _________ in your body:
- Security guard
- Computer
- Filter
- Vacuum cleaner
Visit http://www.knowyournodes.org/index.php for the answers. The Know Your Nodes campaign was originally launched in Canada in 2006.
Knowing More About Lymphoma
Through the ongoing global commitment to lymphoma research, strides are being taken to give new hope to lymphoma patients. Researchers across the globe are working to find the answers to critical questions concerning lymphoma:
- How does lymphoma develop?
- Why is the incidence of lymphoma rising across the world?
- Why do lymphomas occur at all ages, including some forms that are more common in young adults?
- What is the role of genetics in controlling lymphoma behaviour and its response to treatment?
Dr. Joseph Connors, Medical Oncologist and Clinical Director, Centre for Lymphoid Cancer, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, Canada is part of a team leading global lymphoma research. He stated, “Lymphoma research must remain a global focus in order to unlock its mysteries. Through research, we are working to uncover the reasons why lymphoma continues to rise in incidence, while other common cancers decline.” He continued, “Further research into the causes of lymphoma is a priority, as we need to know what causes lymphoma in order to create preventative strategies.”
