Leukaemia Symptoms, Screening And Diagnosis

Leukaemia is a type of cancer that originates in the bone marrow and affects the blood cells – particularly white blood cells. Because it often develops silently, understanding leukaemia symptoms and knowing when to seek screening or diagnosis is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment. This article explores the common signs of leukaemia, when you should consider screening, and how the condition is diagnosed.

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Common Leukaemia Symptoms

Leukaemia symptoms can vary depending on the type (acute or chronic) and how far the disease has progressed. Many early symptoms are nonspecific, often mistaken for common illnesses such as the flu. However, persistent or unexplained signs should prompt medical attention.

Here are the most common leukaemia symptoms to watch for:

• Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent tiredness that does not improve with rest is often one of the earliest signs.
• Frequent or Severe Infections: Abnormal white blood cells cannot fight infection effectively.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden and unintentional weight loss may be a warning sign.
• Fever or Chills: These may occur frequently and without a clear cause.
• Swollen Lymph Nodes: Particularly in the neck, armpit or groin, sometimes accompanied by pain.
• Easy Bruising or Bleeding: Including frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums.
• Petechiae: Tiny red spots under the skin caused by bleeding.
• Bone or Joint Pain: Especially in the legs or arms, caused by abnormal cell accumulation.
• Night Sweats: Excessive sweating while asleep, unrelated to room temperature.

Some people with chronic leukaemia may show no symptoms initially and are only diagnosed during routine blood tests.

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Who Is More Likely To Get Leukaemia?

Leukaemia can affect people of all ages, but certain groups are at higher risk. The likelihood of developing leukaemia increases due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Here is a breakdown of who is at greater risk to get leukaemia:

1. Older Adults

• Most types of leukaemia, especially chronic leukaemias (like CLL and CML), are more common in people over 60 years old.
• Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is also more prevalent in older adults.

2. Children

• Leukaemia is the most common childhood cancer, particularly acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL).
• Children between 2 and 5 years old are at the highest risk for ALL.

3. People With Certain Genetic Conditions

• People with Down syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Fanconi anaemia, and other inherited disorders have a significantly higher risk.

4. People With A Family History Of Leukaemia

• Although leukaemia is not strongly hereditary, having a first-degree relative with the disease may slightly increase risk.

5. People Who Have Been Exposed To High Levels Of Radiation Or Chemicals

• Exposure to ionising radiation (e.g., from radiation therapy or nuclear accidents) raises risk.
• Long-term exposure to benzene (a chemical in petrol and industrial solvents) is linked to AML.

6. People Who Previously Underwent Cancer Treatment

• Chemotherapy and radiation therapy for other cancers can damage bone marrow, increasing future leukaemia risk.

7. Smokers

• Smoking increases the risk of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), likely due to exposure to carcinogenic chemicals in tobacco.

8. Men

• Men are slightly more likely than women to develop most types of leukaemia, though the reasons are not fully understood.

When To Go For Screening

Currently, there is no universal leukaemia screening programme for asymptomatic people. However, people with leukaemia risk factors should consider periodic blood tests or medical consultations based on risk level. For these groups, routine complete blood counts (CBCs) may help detect abnormalities early, even before symptoms arise.

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When To Seek Diagnosis

If you are experiencing any of the above leukaemia symptoms for more than two weeks – especially fatigue, frequent infections, bruising, or weight loss – you should consult a medical professional.

Diagnosis typically involves the following steps:

1. Medical History And Physical Exam: A doctor will assess symptoms and risk factors.
2. Blood Tests: A complete blood count (CBC) can reveal abnormal levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.
3. Bone Marrow Biopsy: A definitive test to confirm leukaemia by examining bone marrow cells under a microscope.
4. Genetic Testing: To identify chromosomal abnormalities that guide treatment options.

Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment success and survival rates.

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Leukaemia is a serious but treatable condition. Recognising leukaemia symptoms early and understanding when to seek screening or diagnosis can make a life-saving difference. If you have concerns or fall within a high-risk group, consult a healthcare professional promptly for assessment.

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