Did you know that September is also declared as Blood Diseases Month? By virtue of the Proclamation No. 1833 signed by the former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in 2009, this proclamation recognizes the combined impact of three major blood-related diseases of Leukemia, Anemia and Bleeding disorders. The celebration aims to raise general awareness and to understand blood diseases which is associated to significant portion of the total deaths due to cancer.
The Blood is a vitally important fluid for the body composed of plasma, white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. It plays a large role in bringing oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body so they can keep working. Here are some of the most common blood diseases and the key nutrients needed for maintaining blood health:
Common Blood diseases
Anemia
Anemia is the most common blood disorder in the general population. It is a condition in which the red blood cell count or the hemoglobin is less than normal. The most common cause of anemia is not having enough Iron. Patients with anemia usually feel tired, become easily fatigued, appear pale, experience shortness of breath and irregular heartbeat.
Hemophilia
Hemophilia is a rare inherited bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly which can lead to spontaneous bleeding following injuries or surgeries. The disorder occurs because of certain blood clotting factors are missing or do not work properly. Hemophilia on the otherhand affects males almost exclusively. The only available treatment for this disorder is the replacement therapy wherein, concentrates of clotting factor VIII and IX are slowly infused into a patient’s vein.
Leukemia
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. In this condition, it usually involves the white blood cells. White blood cells serve as the soldiers of our immune system to help the body fight infection and other diseases. . In people with leukemia, the bone marrow produces an excessive amount of abnormal white blood cells, which don’t function properly. Two types of leukemia is classified as Acute and Chronic. Acute leukemia develops quickly and worsens rapidly while chronic leukemia gets worse over time. Although causes of Leukemia are still unknown, some factors may trigger in developing it such as smoking, exposure to radiation or certain chemicals, family history and genetic disorder. Treatment of Leukemia is a bit complex but it depends on the type of leukemia you have and your health treatment capability. This may include Chemotherapy, Radiation, Biologic therapy, targeted therapy, Stem cell therapy and Surgery.
Key Nutrients needed for maintaining blood health
Iron
Iron is a mineral that our bodies need for many functions. Iron is also a part of hemoglobin, a protein molecule inside the red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Shortage of Iron in the blood can lead to a range of serious health problems such as Iron Deficiency Anemia. Iron promotes healthy pregnancy and helps preserve general energy to support overall health. Apart from Iron supplements, good sources of Iron include liver, red meat, beans, nuts, dried fruits and soy bean flour.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a B vitamin. It helps the body make healthy new cells. It is especially important among pregnant women to prevent major birth defects involving the spine and brain. Foods with Folic Acid include green leafy vegetables, fruits, beans, peanuts, whole grains, sea foods, eggs and fortified foods and supplements.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin required for the proper function and development of the brain, nerves, blood cells and many other parts of the body. Animal products such as fish, red meat, eggs and dairy products naturally contains vitamin B12.
(by NO II Aurel/ OIC-NPC Flores)
References: officialgazette.gov.ph
Pchrd.dost.gov.ph
cfch.com.sg/nutrition-for-healthy-blood
medicine.net
webmd.com
