AML, or Acute Myeloid Leukemia, is a type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow. The good news is that if AML is caught early, it can be treated and cured. While the exact cause of AML is unknown, there are certain risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
Risk Factors for Developing AML
The risk factors for developing AML include:
Age: The risk of developing AML increases with age; it is more common in people over 60 years of age.
Exposure to Chemicals: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene, may increase the risk of developing AML.
Medical History: People with a history of certain blood disorders, such as myelodysplastic syndrome, are at an increased risk of developing AML.
Genetics: Certain genetic mutations, such as those found in the TP53 gene, can increase the risk of developing AML.
Signs and Symptoms of AML
The signs and symptoms of AML can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:
Fatigue: Feeling tired and having no energy are common symptoms of AML.
Fever: A low-grade fever is a common symptom of AML.
Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath may be caused by anemia, a common symptom of AML.
Bruising and Bleeding: Easy bruising and bleeding, such as nosebleeds, may be caused by a low platelet count, a common symptom of AML.
Treating AML
If AML is caught early, it can be treated and cured. Treatment for AML typically involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or a stem cell transplant. The type of treatment will depend on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the cancerous cells and restore the patient's normal blood cell count.
In some cases, patients may be eligible for a clinical trial. Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or new combinations of treatments. Participating in a clinical trial can give patients access to treatments that are not yet widely available.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with AML, it is important to discuss all treatment options with your doctor. With early detection and appropriate treatment, AML is curable.