Leukemia
What?
Blood cancer (leukemia) is a type of cancer that manifests itself by the above-normal proliferation of blood cells, especially white blood cells. Bone marrow damage occurs when a large number of immature and malignant cells replace normal marrow cells. Thus, the number of platelets that play a role in blood coagulation and leukocytes that play a role in defense begin to decrease. This causes intense injuries and bleeding in leukemia patients, and patients easily get infections.
Why is that?
Although the exact causes are unknown, both genetic and environmental factors are thought to play an important role. Apart from genetic reasons, petrochemicals, radiation, carcinogenic substances and some viruses are predicted to be caused.
Possible Symptoms:
- Tiredness or weakness
- Shortness of breath during physical activity
- Pale skin
- Chronic mild fever and night sweats
- Slow healing of cuts and excessive bleeding
- Black and blue bruises with unexplained cause
- Pinhead-sized red spots under the skin
- Pain in bones and joints (eg knee, hip, shoulder)
- Decrease in white blood cell count, especially monmocyte and neutrophil count
What can be done?
Routine checks should never be neglected for early diagnosis of blood cancer. Controlling alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco products, exercising regularly, avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals, and following a personalized diet program with a specialist dietician are steps that reduce risk factors. As with any cancer, early diagnosis is of vital importance for the treatment of blood cancer.
