Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells in the body, and can occur in people of all ages, from infants to adults. However, the age group that is most commonly affected by leukemia is children under the age of 15.
In the United States, approximately 3,500 children are diagnosed with leukemia each year. Children between the ages of three and seven are the most commonly affected, with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) being the most common type of leukemia in this age group. The second most common type of leukemia in children is acute myelogenous leukemia (AML).
In adults, the most common type of leukemia is chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). CLL is most common in adults over the age of 55, and is more common in men than in women. Other types of leukemia, such as acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) are also more common in adults than in children.
Although the exact cause of leukemia is unknown, certain risk factors have been identified. These include exposure to radiation, certain chemotherapy treatments, and certain genetic conditions. In addition, certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and a family history of leukemia, can also increase a person’s risk of developing leukemia.
Overall, leukemia is most commonly found in children under the age of 15, with the most common type being acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Adults over the age of 55 are more likely to develop chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Risk factors for developing leukemia include radiation exposure, certain chemotherapy treatments, certain genetic conditions, and certain lifestyle factors.
