Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Rebrands to 'Blood Cancer United'

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is changing its name to Blood Cancer United to expand its reach to all patients with blood cancers, according to a press release from the nonprofit organization.

The name change will take effect on August 28, ahead of Blood Cancer Awareness Month in September. It will reflect all 100+ types of blood cancers beyond leukemia and lymphoma, including myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, and myeloproliferative neoplasms.

“The word ‘united’ is transformational and inviting,” said E. Anders Kolb, MD, President and CEO of LLS, in the press release. “I believe in the power of bringing together patients, families, scientists, volunteers, donors, business leaders, and health systems under a shared purpose. Blood Cancer United reflects who we are today and who we aspire to be—a unifying force advancing progress for every person impacted by blood cancer.”

The organization’s rebrand stems from community feedback and will further support its mission to fund blood cancer research, provide education and patient services, and advocate for policies that increase access to quality healthcare. Recently, the organization invested $5 million in research to increase clinical trial access and participation, particularly among underrepresented groups, to advance treatment options and improve patient outcomes.

“We are at a pivotal moment—not only for our organization, but for our community—when funding for cancer research and access to treatment and care are at risk,” said Dr. Kolb. “Patients and researchers are telling us they’re worried about the impact these changes will have for anyone dealing with blood cancer, so there’s no better time for a resource that helps us reach more of the patients who need us.”

The organization aims to “enable patients with blood cancers to gain more than one million years of life” by 2040.