Maryam Moshiri reveals diagnosis of rare blood cancer

BBC News presenter Maryam Moshiri has revealed she is living with polycythaemia vera (PV), a rare and incurable blood cancer. Moshiri, who has been with the broadcaster since 2003, shared her diagnosis to raise awareness about the disease.

Diagnosed in November 2024, PV causes the body to produce excessive red blood cells, making the blood thicker than normal. This condition increases the risk of blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks. Moshiri noted that she initially experienced few symptoms, and her condition was only detected due to a fastidious routine blood test by her GP.

Treatment for the condition involves managing the disease as a chronic illness. Moshiri described undergoing debilitating venesection sessions, where blood is periodically removed to reduce thickness. Despite facing extreme fatigue and exhaustion, she has continued her professional duties, including reporting on major international stories.