Republican lawmaker from Louisiana and majority leader Steve Scalise revealed on Tuesday that he had been identified with a rare type of blood cancer but intended to return to Washington to carry on working while receiving treatment over the next months.
The 57-year-old Mr Scalise announced in a statement that he had started treatment for multiple myeloma, which he called “a very treatable blood cancer,” following tests that confirmed his diagnosis after feeling unwell over the August congressional holiday.
Certain healthy blood cells turn malignant in multiple myeloma, pushing out cells required to combat infections and producing aberrant proteins that might cause issues.
It is a relatively uncommon cancer that is thought to affect 35,000 Americans per year on average, most frequently affecting men and Black individuals. The survival rate varies depending on how far the malignancy has gone, although in recent years, about 60% of people with multiple myeloma survived the disease’s symptoms for at least five years.
Although there are a variety of therapy choices that depend on how quickly the cancer is progressing, patients may experience more frequent infections as well as bone and renal issues. These include corticosteroids, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, which aids the body’s immune system in combating cancer cells.
Also Read: Is Trump open to considering debate stage candidates for Vice President?
A stem cell transplant is an option for some individuals. The body’s malignant cells are first reduced in quantity by drug therapy, and then harmful blood-forming stem cells are swapped out for good ones.
Who is Jennifer Scalise?
Jennifer Scalise is the wife of Steve Scalise, an American politician. Steve Scalise is a Republican member of the United States House of Representatives from Louisiana. He served as the House Majority Whip, the third-ranking position in the House Republican leadership
