Disease starts with a painless lump

Hodgkin lymphoma can strike at any time but is most diagnosed in people in their early 20s and those over 70.

The most common sign is a painless swelling in the neck, armpit or groin.

Some victims have more general symptoms like unexplained fevers, weight loss and drenching night sweats.

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, in which white blood cells that are supposed to fight infection do not work properly.

Treatment usually includes chemotherapy and in some cases radiotherapy and steroids.

Success rates are high especially with early diagnosis. Most patients are cured.

Nearly 1,900 Britons are diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma a year, at a rate of three people in every 100,000.