Leukaemia

Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and lymphatic system, in which abnormal white blood cells multiply uncontrollably and crowd out healthy blood cells. This disrupts the body's ability to produce normal red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, impairing oxygen transport, immune defense, and clotting. Leukaemia can be acute, progressing rapidly and requiring urgent treatment, or chronic, developing more slowly over months to years. It affects people of all ages, with certain subtypes more common in children and others in older adults.

The most common symptoms include: Persistent fatigue and weakness; frequent infections; easy bruising or bleeding; unexplained weight loss. Early recognition is key to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.

No, Leukaemia is not contagious. It cannot spread through casual contact. However, certain risk factors and genetic predispositions may increase susceptibility.

Treatment options include: Treatment depends on the type and stage of leukaemia and typically includes chemotherapy to destroy cancerous cells; targeted therapy drugs for specific genetic mutations; and immunotherapy to boost the immune system's cancer-fighting ability. Stem cell or bone marrow transplantation may offer a cure for eligible patients. Treatment should always be guided by a qualified Hematology specialist. Do not self-medicate.

While Leukaemia cannot always be fully prevented, several measures can reduce risk: No guaranteed prevention; but avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure; limiting exposure to industrial chemicals like benzene.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of Leukaemia. This is a serious condition — go to the emergency room or call 112 if symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening.