LEUKEMIA and Adults

Story provided by Life's Point, Focus on Health Care, Spring 2008 - pg3.

Leukemia generally is thought as a young person’s disease. However, did you know leukemia – a cancer of the white blood cells – affects ten times as many adults as children?

The exact cause of leukemia in both children and adults is unknown. However, the effects are the same no matter what age or gender you are.

“Whether you’re a child or adult, making the diagnosis in a timely manner is the most important thing, especially since in both age groups there are various types of leukemia,” says James Moore, MD, hematology/oncology specialist at Colorado Plains Medical Center. “Fortunately, there also is a large amount of research being poured into the treatment of leukemia, making it easier for people who are diagnosed with this disease to live longer.”

THE TWO TYPES

Two types of leukemia occur in adults: acute and chronic leukemia, both of which can affect either lymphoid or myeloid cells.

“Acute leukemia appears suddenly, while adults with chronic leukemia may have had it for many months or years without even knowing it,” says Dr. Moore. “Fatigue, fevers, infection, and bruising all are possible signs of leukemia. Talk with your physician if you feel you are experiencing any of these symptoms.”

Dr. Moore also sees patients for other cancer and blood disorders at the Colorado Plains Medical Center Specialty Clinic. To make an appointment call (970) 867-6430.

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