Malignant diagnosis, surely?

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of rare blood disorders that can affect people in very different ways. Symptoms are often vague and develop slowly, meaning MDS can be mistaken for normal ageing or other health conditions.

The Malignant diagnosis, surely? campaign reflected the confusion many people experienced around diagnosis. For some, being told they had a malignant condition came as a shock, even after months or years of symptoms. The campaign brought together patient groups, healthcare professionals and supporters to improve awareness and understanding of MDS.

The campaign highlighted how a lack of awareness contributed to:

• delays in diagnosis
  
• misunderstanding of MDS as a condition
  
• frustration and uncertainty for patients and carers

By sharing information and lived experience, the campaign aimed to help shorten the journey to diagnosis and ensure people affected by MDS felt better informed and supported.

As part of MDS World Awareness Day, supporters helped raise awareness by:

• learning more about MDS and its symptoms
  
• sharing information and personal experiences
  
• taking part in online conversations linked to the campaign

These actions helped increase visibility of MDS and the issues faced by those living with the condition.