25-Year Study Uncovers Hidden Paths and Early Warning Signs of Blood Cancer

A long-term study tracked 30 patients with chronic blood cancers for up to 25 years using genome sequencing and medical records.

Stable patients showed little new mutation buildup, while worsening cases accumulated genetic changes over time.

Some patients without common MPN mutations appeared to reflect normal aging patterns rather than true cancer.

The findings could help doctors tell cancer from age-related change, predict progression earlier, and guide treatment using routine genetic testing.