Leukemia
Overview
Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that begins in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. It causes the body to make large numbers of abnormal white blood cells that do not function properly. These cells crowd out healthy blood cells, affecting the body's ability to fight infection, carry oxygen, and control bleeding.
Signs & Symptoms
Leukemia symptoms can vary depending on the type and how quickly the disease develops. Some forms progress slowly with mild symptoms, while others appear suddenly and more severely. Because these symptoms can resemble other common illnesses, it's important to talk with your doctor if they persist or worsen. Common signs and symptoms may include:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Frequent or severe infections
- Fever or chills
- Easy bruising or bleeding, including nosebleeds or bleeding gums
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Bone or joint pain
- Swollen lymph nodes, liver, or spleen
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
- Night sweats
Causes
The exact cause of leukemia is not fully understood. It appears to develop from a combination of genetic and environmental factors that affect how blood cells form and function.
How Leukemia Forms
Leukemia begins when certain blood cells in the bone marrow develop changes in their DNA. Normally, DNA directs cells to grow and die at a controlled rate. In leukemia, these changes cause abnormal blood cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. Over time, they crowd out healthy cells, reducing the number of normal white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This imbalance leads to many of the signs and symptoms of leukemia.
As the disease progresses, the number and function of healthy blood cells continue to decline. The table below shows typical blood count levels in healthy adults for comparison:
| Type of Blood Cell | Levels Found in a Healthy Person |
|---|---|
| Hemoglobin (Hb) | 13–18 g/dl (men) / 11.5–16.5 g/dl (women) |
| Platelets | 150–400 × 10⁹/L |
| White blood cells (WBC) | 4.0–11.0 × 10⁹/L |
| Neutrophils | 2.0–7.5 × 10⁹/L |
| Lymphocytes | 1.5–4.5 × 10⁹/L |
Classification: By Speed of Progression
Leukemia is classified based on how quickly it progresses, and the type of blood cell affected.
Involves immature blood cells that multiply rapidly and cannot function properly. It develops quickly and requires prompt treatment.
Involves more mature blood cells that grow slowly and may function normally for a time. Some types cause few or no early symptoms.
Classification: By Cell Type
Affects lymphoid cells (lymphocytes), which are part of the immune system.
Affects myeloid cells, which form red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Types of Leukemia
The main types of leukemia include:
Most common in young children but can occur in adults. Affects lymphoid cells (a type of white blood cell).
Can affect both children and adults and is the most common type of acute leukemia in adults. Affects myeloid cells, which normally develop into red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets.
The most common chronic leukemia in adults; affects lymphoid cells and typically progresses more slowly, some people may have few symptoms for years.
Primarily affects adults and may remain stable for long periods before becoming more aggressive. Affects myeloid cells and can progress from a chronic phase to a more aggressive acute phase.
Such as hairy cell leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and myeloproliferative disorders.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of leukemia is unknown, but certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will get leukemia, but awareness can help with prevention and early detection.
- Age: The risk of most types of leukemia increases with age, although some, like acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), are more common in children.
- Gender: Leukemia occurs slightly more often in men than in women.
- Previous cancer treatment: Chemotherapy or radiation therapy used to treat other cancers can increase the risk of leukemia later in life.
- Exposure to radiation or chemicals: High levels of radiation or long-term exposure to industrial chemicals such as benzene may raise risk.
- Smoking: Tobacco use has been linked to a higher risk of acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
- Genetic disorders: Certain inherited conditions, such as Down syndrome, increase the risk of developing leukemia.
- Family history: Having a close relative with leukemia may slightly raise risk.
- Weakened immune system: People with immune disorders or those taking medications that suppress immunity may have an increased risk.
Prevention
There’s no certain way to prevent leukemia, but healthy choices and regular medical care may help lower risk and support early detection.
Smoking increases the risk of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Quitting benefits overall health.
Reduce contact with industrial chemicals such as benzene whenever possible.
Avoid unnecessary exposure to high levels of radiation in both medical and environmental settings.
Eat a balanced diet, stay active, and schedule routine checkups to support immune health and early detection.
Treatments & Services
Treatment Options
Treatment for leukemia depends on the type, stage, and overall health of each patient. Options focus on controlling the disease, managing symptoms, and supporting long-term remission.
Service Options
Supportive care helps manage side effects, strengthen the body during treatment, and provide guidance through every stage of care. These services are designed to improve comfort and quality of life for patients and families.
Find Care
If you’ve been diagnosed with leukemia or are experiencing symptoms, connecting with a specialist is an important next step. Find a provider or location near you to learn more about diagnosis, treatment options, and ongoing support.
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