Understanding Leukemia: Types, Causes, and Risk Factors

Leukemia is a blood cancer that affects thousands annually, with the American Cancer Society estimating over 60,000 new cases in the United States this year. The disease originates from abnormal growth of immature blood stem cells—either myeloid or lymphoid—that overcrowd healthy blood cells, impairing immune function.

1. Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL)
Each year, about 6,000 Americans are diagnosed with ALL, predominantly affecting children under five. Although children respond well to treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplants, and immunotherapy, older patients often face higher mortality rates.

2. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
Commonly diagnosed in older adults, with an average age of around 70, CLL usually progresses slowly but can spread to organs like the liver and spleen if untreated. It accounts for approximately 21,000 new cases annually, with around 4,500 deaths. Treatments include chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplants, and immunotherapy.

3. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
AML is the most prevalent and aggressive form, with nearly 20,000 new cases every year. Usually affecting those over 65, AML progresses rapidly. Younger patients often achieve remission rates between 70-80% with targeted therapies, chemotherapy, and stem cell transplants, with about a quarter surviving beyond five years.

4. Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)
CML affects older populations, with an average diagnosis age of 65. It results from genetic changes like the Philadelphia chromosome, leading to abnormal white blood cell growth. Around 8,400 cases are diagnosed annually in the U.S., with treatments involving targeted therapy, chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, and immunotherapy.