Leukaemia

What is Leukaemia?

Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow — the soft tissue inside our bones that makes new blood cells.. This cancer primarily affects the white blood cells, which are essential for the body’s immune defence. In leukaemia, the bone marrow produces an abnormal number of white blood cells that don't function properly, compromising the body's ability to fight infections.

Leukaemia can be categorised into various forms, with certain types being more common in children and others affecting adults. Early detection is crucial for improving the chances of successful treatment and managing symptoms effectively.

What Causes Leukaemia?

While the exact cause of leukaemia remains unknown, several factors can increase the likelihood of developing this condition:

Genetic Mutations in DNA

Leukaemia develops when genetic mutations in the DNA of blood cells cause abnormal growth. These mutations can result in the uncontrolled proliferation of white blood cells, which overcrowd healthy blood cells and affect overall functionality.

Risk Factors for Leukaemia

While the exact triggers for leukaemia are not fully understood, several factors may increase the likelihood of developing the condition:

Previous Cancer Treatments: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy for other types of cancer can increase the risk of developing leukaemia later on.
Genetic Disorders: Certain genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome, are linked to a higher risk of developing leukaemia.
Chemical Exposure: Prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals, particularly benzene (found in petrol and industrial solvents), has been associated with leukaemia.
Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor, especially for Acute Myelogenous Leukaemia (AML). Chemicals in cigarettes can damage blood-forming cells and trigger cancerous changes.
Family History: A family history of leukaemia may increase the risk. However, many cases occur in individuals with no family history of the disease.

Recognising the Symptoms of Leukaemia

Leukaemia often progresses silently, especially in its early stages. Symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly, and many can overlap with other less severe conditions. For individuals at risk, regular health checkups and blood tests are essential for early detection.

Common Symptoms of Leukaemia

Persistent fatigue or weakness
Fever, chills or night sweats
Frequent infections or slow in healing
Unexplained weight loss or appetite
Swollen glands in the neck, underarms or groin
Easy bruising or bleeding, including nose bleeds or bleeding gums
Tiny red spots on the skin (petechiae)
Bone or joint pain

These symptoms are not exclusive to leukaemia and can indicate other health issues, so seeking medical evaluation is important.

When to Seek Medical Attention

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of the symptoms listed above, especially if they persist over time or worsen. Early diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes and provide a clearer path to treatment.

At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), our experienced haematologists and oncologists specialise in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of leukaemia. We offer a range of diagnostic tests and personalised treatment options to ensure the best care.

Types of Leukaemia

Leukaemia is categorised by how quickly it develops and which type of blood cell is affected. These categories help determine the best treatment approach:

Acute Leukaemia: Characterised by the rapid growth of immature blood cells (blasts), acute leukaemia requires immediate treatment. Common types include Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) and Acute Myelogenous Leukaemia (AML).
Chronic Leukaemia: Chronic leukaemia involves more mature blood cells that multiply slowly. It may not show symptoms for years. The most common forms are Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) and Chronic Myelogenous Leukaemia (CML).
Lymphocytic Leukaemia: This type affects the white blood cells that form part of your immune system.
Myelogenous Leukaemia: This type affects myeloid cells, which are responsible for producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

A Word of Encouragement

A diagnosis of leukaemia can feel overwhelming — but you are not alone. Thanks to major advances in medicine, many people recover fully, and even those with chronic forms can live long, active lives with proper care.

At SJMC, we are here to walk beside you. Our team will take the time to explain, listen, and support you and your loved ones through every stage of care.

Hope begins with understanding — and the first step is simply reaching out.

FAQs About Leukaemia Causes and Symptoms

Early warning signs of leukaemia include persistent fatigue, frequent infections, unexplained bruising, and swollen lymph nodes.p disturbances, and mood changes may also impact overall quality of life.

Yes, especially in acute forms like ALL or AML, where symptoms can appear over days or weeks. That is why early attention to such symptoms is important.

In most cases, no. Only a small number of cases are linked to inherited conditions.

Exposure to benzene, radiation, and certain viruses like HTLV-1 is linked to an increased risk of leukaemia.

Leukaemia in children, especially ALL, often progresses more rapidly but has higher cure rates. Children often respond very well to therapy, and many go on to live full, healthy lives.

Children with leukaemia may experience symptoms like persistent irritability, refusal to eat, and frequent infections. These symptoms, combined with pale skin and unexplained bruising, are key indicators in paediatric cases.

Yes, smoking has been linked to an increased risk of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML). The chemicals in cigarettes can damage DNA in blood-forming cells, leading to leukaemia.

While we can’t always prevent leukaemia, avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps overall well-being and recovery during treatment.