World Leukemia Day 2025: Every year, around 1.2 million people worldwide are diagnosed with leukemia, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In India, over 120,000 new blood cancer cases are reported annually, with many losing their lives. However, despite these alarming numbers, many blood-related conditions often go unnoticed in their early stages because symptoms are subtle or absent. This makes routine blood testing important for early detection and timely treatment.
“Many blood-related conditions do not show obvious signs initially,” says Dr Raman Narang, Consultant Medical Oncology at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi. “Routine blood testing can help detect problems early, allowing timely treatment and significantly improving outcomes,” he further added.
Why blood tests matter
Blood is produced in the bone marrow, where three main types of cells are formed: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, according to the Mayo Clinic. Red blood cells carry oxygen, white blood cells fight infections, and platelets help with clotting and wound healing. When production of these cells is disrupted, it can lead to health issues such as anemia, clotting disorders, infections, or cancers like leukemia.
“Conditions such as leukemia can go unnoticed until they reach a serious stage,” explains Dr Narang. “Routine blood tests are essential for spotting problems early, often before symptoms appear, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes,” he further said.
Why is Leukemia a silent threat?
Leukemia occurs when the body produces abnormal white blood cells in large numbers, which crowd out healthy cells and weaken the immune system. Early warning signs include frequent infections, unexplained bruising, persistent fevers, bone or joint pain, fatigue, or weakness are often mistaken for minor illnesses.
How blood tests help
A simple blood test can reveal important clues. High or low white blood cell counts may indicate infections, immune disorders, or blood cancers. Low hemoglobin levels can point to anemia, while abnormal platelet counts may signal clotting problems or marrow-related diseases. Even minor deviations from normal ranges can act as early warning signs, prompting further investigation.
“Early detection makes a huge difference,” Dr Narang adds. “When serious blood conditions are identified early, patients have a higher chance of successful treatment, remission, and long-term survival. Early intervention also reduces the intensity of treatment needed and improves quality of life,” he said.
Routine checks for everyone
Routine blood testing is not just for those who feel unwell. Adults, particularly over 30, are advised to get annual tests. Parents should watch for unusual symptoms in children, like fatigue, prolonged fevers, or unexplained bruising, and consult a doctor promptly.
“In today’s fast-paced life, subtle signs of illness can be missed,” says Dr Narang. “A simple blood test is a powerful safeguard. Making routine testing a regular part of healthcare helps detect hidden blood disorders early, ensures timely treatment, and improves health outcomes. Being proactive can make all the difference,” he further added.
On World Leukemia Day 2025, Dr Narang urges families to prioritise routine blood tests as early detection not only saves lives but also gives time to recovery.