Employment rights

Anyone diagnosed with a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN), or indeed other illness, in paid employment, is entitled to being treated fairly at work and where reasonable employers should make changes to let you do your job whilst receiving ongoing treatment. Several legal acts are in place to protect employees, job applicants and people who are self-employed.…

Cost of medications – exemption certificate

MPDs reclassified In 2008 the World Health Organization (WHO) reclassified myeloproliferative disorders (all MPDs including myelofibrosis (MF), polycythaemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythaemia (ET) as “myeloproliferative neoplasms”. This is an important change if you are receiving treatment for MPNs. From April 2009 all people in England receiving medication for the treatment of cancer, including MPNs, have been…

MPNs in pregnancy

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) can increase the risks in pregnancy but planning makes a difference. Many people may be diagnosed with an MPN in their twenties and thirties, the time in life when many of us are establishing careers and starting families. It can come as an unwelcome surprise to learn not only that you have…

During pregnancy

Careful management of your blood cell levels reduces pregnancy risks. Women who have been diagnosed with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) need careful management during pregnancy to ensure that both mother and baby remain safe and healthy. Early in pregnancy During the first trimester of pregnancy, the mother’s blood volume increases as her body gets ready to…

Miscarriage

If you have suffered a miscarriage, you may feel grief, frustration and anger. Miscarriage is a very common experience among all women, but the fact that it is common doesn’t lessen the loss and grief that women and their partners can feel. Causes There are many causes of miscarriage, which can include maternal age above…

Planning before pregnancy

If you have been diagnosed with a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) and want to start a family it’s important to plan ahead with your haematologist. If possible, it is best to plan with your haematologist and GP or obstetrician BEFORE becoming pregnant. If you have been taking aspirin only Even if you are not taking medications…