What does a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma mean for Dave Coulier?

(WXYZ) — In today's health alert, actor and stand-up comedian Dave Coulier is being treated for stage 3 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Known as “Uncle Joey” on the sitcom “Full House,” the Detroit native was diagnosed just five weeks ago and has since undergone three surgeries and chemotherapy.

I feel for Dave Coulier. A cancer diagnosis can be truly shocking. He mentioned a cold and then noticed a swelling in his groin that quickly grew to the size of a golf ball. After scans and a biopsy, he was diagnosed with an aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma called B-cell lymphoma.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a group of blood cancers with more than 70 types. It begins in the body's lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. Normally, white blood cells called lymphocytes die and are replaced. But with this cancer, they don't die the way they should. Instead, they clog the lymph nodes and cause swelling and tumors.

There are four stages of cancer that describe how much cancer is in the body. Actor Dave Coulier is in the third phase. This means the cancer is in lymph node areas on either side of the diaphragm and may also occur in the spleen.

The good news is that advances in diagnosis and treatment are helping people live longer. In some cases, cancer can even be cured. For others, treatment may result in remission. In Dave Coulier's case, he said his chances of recovery were about 90%. He should be completing chemotherapy in February, and he hopes to be in complete remission by then.

In terms of prevalence, non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the sixth most common cancer in the United States. It can occur at any age, but people over 60 are at higher risk. So it's no surprise that Dave Coulier is 65 years old. Overall, the five-year survival rate is 73%, and people who are diagnosed before the cancer spreads tend to live longer.

Regarding the last question, I believe people should be aware of how common this cancer is. It's important to look for symptoms like:

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Chest pain, cough, or difficulty breathing
• Persistent fatigue
• Fever
• Night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss

If anyone is concerned, it is important to see their doctor. I wish Dave Coulier all the best in his cancer journey. And I want to convey an important message that he wants to convey: early screenings. Whether it’s a mammogram, colonoscopy or prostate exam – do it. For him, early detection made the crucial difference.