Leukemia and its Causes

I chose the topic of leukemia because my great grandpa had passed away from it close to two years ago. I didn’t really understand what it was and what could have caused it. First off, leukemia is a type of cancer where the bone marrow produces an abnormal amount of white blood cells, in which these cells are called leukemia cells. There haven’t been any direct causes of leukemia but there are some things that can greater your chance of getting it. Some of these risk factors include exposure to radiation, benzene, or other chemicals toxic to bone marrow.

One common form of leukemia is acute leukemia, this form usually begins suddenly and is a rapid process. Many of the early signs for most forms of leukemia are similar but the most common ones for acute leukemia include, fatigue, pale skin, weight loss, easy bruising, fever, bleeding, weakness, bone/joint pain, etc. But many of the common symptoms for most forms of leukemia, cancer consist of, the ones already listed and also loss of appetite, anemia, bone pain, and an enlarged spleen.

Leukemia is a common cancer disease that is developing in people all across the world. Each year, this disease is diagnosed in about 29,000 adults and 2,000 children in the United States alone. There are treatments available for leukemia, but it isn’t always effective. The research being done on this is increasing, and scientists are studying its causes.

Some of the most recent research being done on leukemia today is genetic research. Researchers have been searching for specific genes and or mutations that trigger these cancers. They are finding better ways to treat this disease, including different combinations of chemotherapy. Not only that, but they are doing research to find better ways of reducing the symptoms and the side effects of leukemia, which is reaching hope for patients and their families in looking for a better quality of life, not only that but a greater chance in finding a cure.

What other forms of leukemia are out there?

What are the differences between certain leukemia’s?

What is the worst form of leukemia?

 

1 thought on “Leukemia and its Causes

  1. There are four primary types of leukemia. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The main differences between these types of leukemia, is where the cancer is developed and how fast it progresses. The chronic cells aren’t completely grown, and can defend against infections like normal lymphocytes. Before the immune system functions are developed, acute leukemia cells replicate. AML and CML both occur in the myeloid line of the blood cells. AML occurs rapidly and can be fatal within a few weeks if left untreated. ALL is the most common form of leukemia and is usually found in children. The acute forms of leukemia are most commonly the most fatal due to how fast they multiply.

    http://www.cancercenter.com/leukemia/types/
    http://www.webmd.com/cancer/lymphoma/acute-lymphoblastic-leukemia#1

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