What came out in Lancet study
CML affects a large number of people globally. It is estimated that it affects 1.2 to 1.5 million individuals. Despite its prevalence, CML is relatively rare compared to other forms of leukemia. It accounts for about 15 percent of all leukemia cases. A recent study published in the journal Lancet revealed that the disease is affecting much younger individuals. In India, most patients are diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 40. In comparison, it is diagnosed at a median age of 64 in Western countries.
5-10 new patients every month
K.S. Nataraj, senior hematologist and hemato-oncologist at HCG Comprehensive Cancer Care Hospital in Bangalore, said that I see about 5-10 new patients diagnosed with CML every month. At the same time, 10-15 additional patients come for follow-up. he/she said that the number of patients is also increasing because people are not aware of this disease. When people go for routine general checkup and the doctor recommends tests, then suspiciously high WBC count is detected.
These are the symptoms of the disease
CML is largely curable if diagnosed and treated early. Common symptoms of CML include sweating, weight loss, fever, bone pain and enlarged spleen. Tulika Seth, Professor of Hematology at AIIMS New Delhi, told IANS, “Chronic myeloid leukemia is curable. However, fighting this disease requires a very delicate balance. Consistent medication and regular checkups are the most important things to recover from this disease. With monitoring and personalized treatment strategies, CML can be recovered.
he/she said that each stage of CML treatment presents unique challenges. It is important to embrace progress in treatment by prioritising treatment adherence with frequent monitoring.