Living longer than five years with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is possible, but it depends on numerous factors. The prognosis of an individual's NHL depends on many factors including the patient's age, overall health, type and stage of the cancer, and the treatment they receive.
Prognosis is a prediction of how long a person may live with NHL, and it can range from a few months to many years. The five-year survival rate, which is the percentage of people who are still alive five years after their initial diagnosis, can range from 10% to 90%.
For those with early-stage NHL, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of these treatments. The goal of these treatments is to remove or destroy the cancer cells and to prevent the disease from progressing. Treatment can be successful in many cases, however, some people may experience recurrence of the cancer after treatment.
In addition to receiving treatment, lifestyle factors can also affect life expectancy. Eating a healthy diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol, getting regular exercise, and managing stress can help to improve overall health and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Ultimately, living longer than five years with NHL is possible, but it depends on the individual's prognosis, the type and stage of cancer, and the treatment they receive. Additionally, lifestyle factors can also help to improve overall health and reduce the risk of recurrence.