HEALTH

May 16, 2024

Leukemia: Essential Facts You Need to Know

By Befitbu Health Desk

Leukemia Overview

Leukemia, a blood and bone marrow cancer, involves abnormal white blood cell growth, impairing immunity and blood cell production.

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Types

Four main types include Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML), each with distinct characteristics.

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Symptoms

Fatigue, infections, bruising, bleeding, bone pain, swollen lymph nodes, and weight loss are common signs, varying by type and stage.

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Diagnosis

Blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, and genetic testing confirm the type and severity of leukemia.

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Risk Factors

Genetic factors, radiation, chemicals, smoking, and prior cancer treatments increase leukemia risk.

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Treatment

Options include chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation, tailored to subtype and patient health.

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Chemotherapy

Primary treatment, aims to destroy cancer cells using drugs orally, intravenously, or directly into the central nervous system.

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Stem Cell Transplant

Replaces damaged marrow with healthy stem cells, potentially curing some leukemia cases.

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Living with Leukemia

Requires regular monitoring, managing treatment side effects, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking emotional support.

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Research

Ongoing studies aim to develop more effective therapies, understand leukemia genetics, and advance personalized treatments for better outcomes.

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