HEALTH
May 16, 2024
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.
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.
Fatigue, infections, bruising, bleeding, bone pain, swollen lymph nodes, and weight loss are common signs, varying by type and stage.
Blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, and genetic testing confirm the type and severity of leukemia.
Genetic factors, radiation, chemicals, smoking, and prior cancer treatments increase leukemia risk.
Options include chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation, tailored to subtype and patient health.
Primary treatment, aims to destroy cancer cells using drugs orally, intravenously, or directly into the central nervous system.
Replaces damaged marrow with healthy stem cells, potentially curing some leukemia cases.
Requires regular monitoring, managing treatment side effects, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking emotional support.
Ongoing studies aim to develop more effective therapies, understand leukemia genetics, and advance personalized treatments for better outcomes.