BBC PRESENTER MARYAM MOSHIRI REVEALS INCURABLE BLOOD CANCER DIAGNOSIS

BBC News presenter Maryam Moshiri has disclosed that she was diagnosed with Polycythaemia vera, an incurable blood cancer, in November 2024. The condition affects the bone marrow and causes blood to thicken abnormally. Ms Moshiri, who presents The World Today, has continued working whilst undergoing treatment for the past two years. She told The Times that she has covered major events including the coronation of King Charles, the papal conclave, and the death of Pope Francis, whilst managing the illness.

Ms Moshiri's treatment involves blood removal to reduce red blood cell concentration, a process that leaves her fatigued. She recalled working 14-hour days whilst covering Pope Francis's death in Rome in April last year, describing the experience of managing chronic tiredness alongside live broadcasting. Ms Moshiri, who has three children aged 13, 11 and 9, said the condition has affected her ability to spend time with her family during periods of intensive treatment. She told the publication: "I love what I do. I love being where the story is. I don't want to allow blood cancer to stop me from doing my work."

Ms Moshiri is supporting a campaign called Here for This, launched by Blood Cancer UK, which aims to highlight the impact of the illness on patients' daily lives. According to Blood Cancer UK, more than 310,000 people are living with or in remission from blood cancer. Ms Moshiri has worked at the BBC since 2003 and continues in her presenting role.