Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, and there are various types of leukemia. Each type is classified based on how quickly it progresses and which blood cells are affected.
The type of leukemia that is most commonly seen in young adults is acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). ALL is a fast-growing form of leukemia in which the body makes too many immature lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. ALL usually progresses quickly, and symptoms can include fever, pallor, fatigue, easy or frequent bruising or bleeding, swollen lymph nodes, and bone pain.
If left untreated, ALL can be fatal. However, with early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, the prognosis is good. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and possibly stem cell transplants.
It is important for young adults to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ALL and other types of leukemia, and to see their doctor if they experience any of these symptoms. While leukemia is not as common in young adults as it is in the elderly, it is still important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.