Fact 10: Recurrence and Survival Rates
Burkitt Lymphoma, despite aggressive treatment, may sometimes recur. This means that the cancer returns after treatment. Recurrence can occur in the same place as the original tumor or in another part of the body. When Burkitt Lymphoma recurs, it typically requires more intensive treatment and may be harder to treat.
Survival rates can provide an overview of what percentage of people with the same type and stage of cancer are still alive after a certain period. However, they can’t predict what will happen in any individual’s case. For Burkitt Lymphoma, survival rates have significantly improved over the past decades due to advancements in treatment.
Many factors can affect survival rates, including the stage of the disease at diagnosis, the patient’s overall health, the presence of certain molecular markers, and the response to treatment. Survival rates for Burkitt Lymphoma tend to be higher in children and younger adults compared to older adults, likely due to the intensity of treatment that younger people can typically tolerate.
Follow-up care is crucial for anyone who has been treated for Burkitt Lymphoma. Regular check-ups can help detect a recurrence of lymphoma early, monitor for late side effects of treatment, and manage any ongoing health issues. (10)
