The main area of study in hematology is the blood, so hematology research focuses on the substance itself, organs that form blood, diseases involving blood, and blood-forming organs. Most hematology applications are thus found in the medical field. Hematopathologists, for example, work to diagnose and treat blood disorders. Similar applications include transfusions and stem cell transplants. Blood studies can also further understanding of body organs and body processes.
Blood is a carrier of many substances throughout the body. In many respects, it is the messenger between not only various parts of the body, but between the body and the outside world. Blood supplies nutrients and other substances. Scientists may therefore use blood's unique standing to deliver medicines and other substances in a quick and valuable fashion.
Hematologists have uncovered several diverse components that sustain blood. Each of these components can be studied to better understand the human body’s function. Platelets, for example, help medical professionals understand the process of clotting and therefore develop aids for this process. White blood cells and red blood cells tell scientists much about the body’s disease-fighting capabilities and its subsequent vulnerabilities to disease.
Due to the complexities of the blood, it is susceptible to a wide range of threats. Through hematology, researchers better understand the workings of blood diseases like anemia or leukemia. With this understanding comes greater hope for treatments and cures.
Aided by their clinical laboratory work, hematologists also offer important insights into some non-blood specific conditions as well. For example, these researchers often work hand-in-hand with oncologists to explore the complexities and potential treatments for cancers. The use of bone marrow due to its blood-cell generating capacities also introduces promising research into stem cells. Unmarked stem cells hold the potential for treatments for a wide variety of ailments
In addition, hematology plays an important role in blood transfusions, or the exchange of blood between two organisms. Several factors must be considered in this process, from determining the health of the donor blood to matching blood types between donors and recipients. All such concerns may be addressed by a hematologist.
Since blood is plays such a prominent bodily role, it can also increase knowledge of organs, particularly the heart and the blood vessels. Diseases involving these bodily systems are among the most prevalent and the most fatal in many regions. Recognizing how factors like diet and exercise impact the cardiovascular system helps medical professionals, government officials, and society as a whole develop programs and raise awareness to promote a healthy and balanced body.
