MPN Awareness Day puts focus on myelofibrosis, other rare blood cancers
Advocacy groups plan campaigns, fundraisers, and community events
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MPN Awareness Day on Sept. 10 aims to raise awareness of myeloproliferative neoplasms, including myelofibrosis, and the challenges faced by people living with these rare blood cancers. (Image by iStock)
MPN Awareness Day, which shines a spotlight on myelofibrosis and other myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), takes place Sept. 10.
Advocacy groups are gearing up for events, fundraisers, and campaigns to educate the public about the often-unrecognized impact of MPNs.
“Living with an MPN can mean managing symptoms, treatment and regular monitoring while dealing with uncertainty and the impact the disease can have on work, family life, relationships and emotional well-being. Many of these challenges may not always be visible to others. This is why awareness matters,” the MPN Advocates Network stated on its website.
MPNs are a group of rare blood cancers in which the bone marrow produces too many blood cells. Along with myelofibrosis, MPNs include polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia.
Awareness efforts spotlight patient needs and support
“Greater awareness can help improve understanding of MPNs, bring greater recognition to the challenges experienced by patients and their families, and encourage meaningful conversations about the needs of people living with these conditions. It can also help patients and care partners discover the information, patient organisations and support communities available to them,” the MPN Advocates Network said.
MPNs usually grow slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms early in the disease. Symptoms may become more noticeable as an MPN progresses, and in some cases the disease can transform into a more aggressive blood cancer, making regular monitoring important. On its website, the MPN Cancer Connection encourages people with these diseases to “be proactive and be your own health advocate by asking questions from your healthcare team, get annual screenings and [blood tests], and maintain records of your lab work and appointment discussions.”
MPN Awareness Day is part of Blood Cancer Awareness Month, an effort throughout September to raise awareness about all forms of blood cancer. Throughout the month, and especially on Sept. 10, members of the MPN community are encouraged to speak out and share their stories, both in person and on social media. Advocates can spread the word using hashtags including #MPNAD26, #MPNAwarenessDay2026, #MPN, #Myelofibrosis, #PolycythemiaVera and #EssentialThrombocythemia.
“On September 10th, join the MPN Advocates Network and our global community in raising awareness of MPNs, sharing patient experiences and strengthening the voice of the MPN community worldwide,” the MPN Advocates Network said. “Together, we can increase understanding, raise visibility and ensure that the experiences and needs of people living with MPNs remain at the centre of the conversation.” The group also offers downloadable social media campaign materials on its website.
Throughout September, the U.K.-based advocacy group MPN Voice is hosting a virtual walk event to raise awareness, support the MPN community and fund research. The MPN Research Foundation is also fundraising to support research into MPNs.
Later in the month, on Sept. 24, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network will be hosting a webinar that aims to educate and empower people with MPNs so that they can be active participants in their healthcare decisions.
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