A blood cancer diagnosis can change a person’s life in the blink of an eye. For patients and families, it often brings uncertainty, difficult decisions, and emotional challenges that can continue long after treatment ends. But for many survivors, caregivers, and advocates, it also becomes a journey of strength, resilience, and the power of community support. 

There are more than 100 different types of blood cancer, including lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma. Today, more than 1.5 million people in the United States are battling or in remission from blood cancer, with as many as 192,000 more expected to be diagnosed in 2026 alone. That’s the equivalent of one person learning they have blood cancer every three minutes. These numbers highlight why public awareness, education, and access to cancer support services are so important. 

What is Blood Cancer Awareness Month?

During Blood Cancer Awareness Month, we honor thrivers, survivors, remember loved ones, support caregivers, and advocate for continued progress in research and treatment. It is an opportunity to learn, share resources, support those affected, and help ensure that no one faces a cancer diagnosis alone. 

When is Blood Cancer Awareness Month?

Blood Cancer Awareness Month is held yearly in September. The month also includes related observances, including: 

• Leukemia Awareness Month
• Lymphoma Awareness Month
• World Lymphoma Awareness Day (September 15)

Throughout September, advocacy organizations, healthcare providers, survivors, and community groups work together to spread awareness, support research efforts, and share stories of hope and resilience. Organizations often host educational events, fundraising campaigns, and community outreach activities to help people learn more about blood cancers and available resources.

What is Blood Cancer Awareness Month’s history?

Blood Cancer Awareness Month grew from decades of advocacy, research, and community action focused on improving outcomes for individuals diagnosed with blood cancers. In 2010, the United States House of Representatives passed a resolution recognizing September as National Blood Cancer Awareness Month. 

Over the years, awareness campaigns have supported advances in treatments such as targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and bone marrow transplants. While challenges remain, increased awareness continues to help connect patients and families with lifesaving information and support resources.

Why is Blood Cancer Awareness Month important?

Blood Cancer Awareness Month matters because awareness can save lives. Educational efforts encourage people to talk to their doctors if they experience symptoms, which helps reduce delays in diagnosis.

Awareness also helps reduce the sense of isolation many patients experience. A cancer diagnosis can affect emotional health, finances, relationships, and daily routines. By fostering understanding and compassion, communities can create stronger support networks for survivors and their families.

Blood Cancer Awareness Month is also an opportunity to celebrate how far cancer research has come. According to a 2026 analysis, advances in treatments for leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and other blood cancers have saved an estimated 25.8 million life-years in the United States since 1949. Because there are no routine screening tests for many blood cancers, improvements in survival often depend on new treatments, earlier diagnosis, and access to quality care.

Blood Cancer Support Services in Queens

For individuals and families facing a blood cancer diagnosis in Queens and throughout New York City, access to compassionate support can make a meaningful difference during and after cancer treatment.

At SHAREing & CAREing, it’s our mission to help thrivers, survivors, and families at every step of their cancer journeys. Want to stay in the loop? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates, resources, and ways to get involved.

Sources

• About Blood Cancer, National Foundation for Cancer Research
• Blood Cancer Treatment Advances Have Saved Nearly 26 Million Years of Life Over Past 75 Years, Blood Cancer United 
• House Resolution 1433, 111th Congress, September 2009
• World Lymphoma Awareness Day, Lymphoma Coalition