Leukaemia

Leukemia Causes & Risk Factors - What You Should Know in India?

Leukaemia is a cancer of the body's blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and the lymphatic system. This short explains some of the known risk factors.

What leukaemia is

Leukaemia begins in the bone marrow, the soft tissue inside your bones where blood cells are made. It causes the body to produce a large number of abnormal white blood cells.

• It affects your blood. These abnormal cells do not function correctly. They can crowd out healthy white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, which your body needs to be healthy.
• There are different types. Leukaemia is classified by how quickly it develops (acute or chronic) and by the type of blood cell it affects (lymphocytic or myelogenous).
• Symptoms can vary. Common signs can include fatigue, weakness, fever, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding. These symptoms are also common in many other conditions.

Known risk factors for leukaemia

In most cases, the exact cause of leukaemia is not known. However, doctors have identified several factors that can increase a person's risk.

• Previous cancer treatment. People who have had certain types of chemotherapy or radiation therapy for other cancers have a higher risk of developing some types of leukaemia.
• Certain genetic disorders. Genetic conditions like Down's syndrome are linked to an increased risk of developing leukaemia.
• Exposure to chemicals. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene, is a known risk factor. Benzene is used in some industries and is present in petrol and cigarette smoke.
• A family history. Having a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, with some forms of leukaemia may slightly increase your risk, but this is not common.

Whether a particular treatment is right for you depends on your individual case. A specialist can advise on the best course of action after reviewing your medical reports and recent imaging.