My Health Digest
My Health Digest
Leukemia is a type of cancer of blood cells and tissues that produce blood cells such as bone marrow. In normal health, blood cells in the bone marrow arise as stem cells, and later mature to form different types of blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells or sheets), and move into the bloodstream. For those suffering from leukemia, their bone marrow begins to produce abnormal white blood cells that enter the bloodstream and begin to compete with healthy normal blood cells, preventing them from functioning properly.
What are the symptoms of leukemia?
Symptoms of leukemia vary depending on its type. The usual signs and symptoms of leukemia include:
- Fever or chills
- Constant fatigue and weakness
- Recurrent or serious infection
- Weight loss without trying
- Lymph nodes and enlarged liver or spleen
- Easy bleeding or bruising
- Recurrent nosebleeds
- Small red spots in your skin (inks)
- Hyperhidrosis, especially at night
- Bone pain or touch pain
How does leukemia form?
In general, leukemia is believed to occur when some blood cells develop changes (mutations) in their DNA. The cell’s DNA contains instructions to perform its specific function, and the cell DNA is usually directed to two things: growth at a certain rate and death at a specific time. In the case of leukemia, mutations direct blood cells to continue to grow and divide.
When this happens, the body loses control of the blood cell production process.
Are there risk factors? And what is it?
Yes, there is.
Factors that may increase your risk of some types of leukemia include:
- Treatment of previous cancer. People who have already undergone certain types of chemotherapy and radiotherapy for other types of cancer may be at greater risk of developing certain types of leukemia.
- Genetic disorders. Genetic defects can play a role in leukemia, where certain genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, are associated with an increased risk of leukemia.
- Exposure to certain chemicals. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as gasoline — found in gasoline, used in the chemical industry — is associated with a higher risk of developing certain types of leukemia.
- Cigarette smoking increases the risk of acute myeloid leukemia.
- There is a history of leukemia in the family. If your family members are diagnosed with leukemia, your risk of developing the disease may increase.
However, the majority of people exposed to known risk factors do not develop leukemia. Many people with leukemia do not have any of these risk factors.
When do you visit the doctor?
Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any persistent signs or symptoms of concern.
The symptoms of leukemia are often vague and unspecified. Early leukemia symptoms may be ignored because they may resemble flu symptoms and other common diseases.
Leukemia is often detected during blood tests for some other conditions.
Prevention of blood cancer
Are you concerned about cancer prevention? Take responsibility by making changes such as eating a healthy diet and regular check-ups.
- Avoid tobacco use
Using any type of tobacco puts you on a collision course with cancer.
- Dieting is good for your health
Although healthy choices when buying groceries and eating times cannot guarantee cancer prevention, they may reduce that risk. The following guidelines should be taken into account:
- Eat a large amount of fruits and vegetables.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- If you want to drink alcohol, take it in moderation.
- Reduce processed meat intake.
People on the Mediterranean diet eat healthy fats, such as olive oil instead of butter, and fish instead of red meat.
- Maintain healthy body weight and exercise regularly.
- Protect yourself from the sun
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers and one of the most preventable. Try the following tips:
- Avoid the midday sun.
- Stay in the shade.
- Cover exposed areas.
- Don’t forget to use sunscreen.
- Avoid tanning beds and solar lamps.
- You must receive a vaccine
Cancer prevention includes protection against certain viral infections. Talk to your doctor about vaccination against:
- Hepatitis B.
- Human Papillomavirus(HPV).
- Get Medical Care
Self-tests and regular screening for various types of cancer, such as skin, colon, neck, and breast cancer, can increase your chances of detecting cancer early when treatment success is most likely. Ask your doctor about the best cancer screening schedule for you.