Polycythaemia vera is a chronic condition classified as a type of blood cancer. It occurs when the bone marrow produces an excess of red blood cells, which can thicken the blood and increase the risk of serious complications such as blood clots, strokes, or heart attacks. While the condition is currently considered incurable, medical treatments are available to manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

Management typically involves procedures to lower the number of red blood cells, such as phlebotomy (the removal of blood), or the use of medications to suppress bone marrow activity. Because it is a chronic, progressive disease, patients require lifelong monitoring by hematologists. The condition is relatively rare; in the United Kingdom, it is estimated that approximately 15,000 people are currently living with the diagnosis.

Public awareness of the disease has increased recently after BBC news presenter Maryam Moshiri shared her personal experience with the condition. Her disclosure has highlighted the reality of living with a chronic, incurable cancer diagnosis while maintaining a professional career. While the medical community emphasizes that the disease can be managed effectively for many years, the diagnosis remains a significant life-altering event for patients.