Leukaemia is a type of cancer that occurs when abnormal blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and blood. It can be caused by a number of factors, including genetic mutations, exposure to radiation and certain chemicals, chemotherapy, age, gender, family history of leukaemia, and infection. While having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that a person will develop the disease, it is important to be aware of them and take steps to reduce exposure to potential triggers.
Early detection of leukaemia is difficult, as the disease can develop without clear symptoms. Regular medical check-ups and cancer screenings are essential, especially for those with risk factors.
If leukaemia is suspected, a doctor will order blood tests, a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, and imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the disease.
Seeking medical attention immediately upon experiencing any symptoms of leukaemia can improve your chances of recovery.
The symptoms of leukaemia can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Signs become harder to ignore as the condition advances. Symptoms to look out for:
Leukaemia is classified as either acute or chronic, depending on the speed of its progression, with the former requiring urgent treatment. It can also be categorised into lymphocytic or myelogenous according to the type of cells affected.
There are four major types:
Other types of leukaemia include:
Leukaemia is classified into four stages based on the type and progression of the disease. Each subtype has its unique staging system:
Determining the stage of leukaemia is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis prediction. Treatments vary depending on the type and stage of the disease and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, corticosteroids, and targeted therapy.
Patients with relapsed or refractory CLL and T-PLL may choose to include both Pharmac and non-Pharmac drugs, such as ibrutinib (Imbruvica) and Brentuximab vedotin, as part of their treatment. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, and treatment depends on several factors, such as the overall health of the patient and the characteristics of the disease.
Follow-up care is necessary to monitor the disease's progression and to manage any side effects. A team of healthcare professionals provide support and guidance throughout the treatment journey.
Integrative medicine combines traditional medical approaches with complementary therapies to address the ‘whole person’. Complementary therapies are non-medical practices that help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These might include acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal supplements, and may benefit leukaemia patients during and after treatment.
However, they are not a substitute for traditional medicine. Patients should work with their healthcare providers to ensure complementary therapies are safe to use and do not interfere with standard medical treatments.
Leukaemia survivors require expert medical care and support during the recovery phases, which include the following:
During these phases, patients work with healthcare providers to create a personalised survivorship care plan that meets their needs and preferences.
New Zealand is ranked 43rd in the world for deaths caused by leukaemia, with 391 recorded in 2020 (accounting for 1.39% of all deaths). Leukaemia is the fifth most common cancer in this country, with around 750 people diagnosed each year and an incidence rate of 8.8 cases per 100,000 people, which is higher than the global average.
Five-year survival rates for the different types of leukaemia in New Zealand vary. Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia have rates of around 80%; acute myeloid leukaemia, 30-40%; and chronic myeloid leukaemia, 80-90%. These statistics highlight the importance of early detection and effective treatment in improving outcomes for leukaemia patients in New Zealand.
Living with leukaemia can cause physical and emotional stress. Managing treatment side effects - such as fatigue, nausea, and hair loss - by choosing healthy lifestyle practices is essential. Mental health issues related to the diagnosis and treatment of leukaemia may also arise, and professional counselling, mindfulness, self-care activities, and therapy can help patients cope with these challenges.
Building a strong network of family, friends, and healthcare providers supplies invaluable emotional support and practical assistance during the treatment and recovery process. With positive systems in place, finding a ‘new normal’ and continuing daily activities while living with leukaemia is absolutely possible.
Leukaemia affects around 1000 New Zealanders each year and has four main types. Although it can affect anyone, it is more common in adults over 50. Survival rates vary based on age, overall health, and the type of leukaemia. Proper treatment and care can allow many patients to live long and healthy lives.
You may not have leukaemia, but that’s no guarantee it won’t affect you or someone you love. Think about how health insurance can prepare you for the possibility.
And not all health insurance plans are the same. Some plans only pay for a tiny fraction of your treatment expenses.
Don’t let this happen to you. When buying health insurance, talk to a Policywise adviser about maximum benefit amounts for cancer treatments, non-Pharmac cover, inclusions, and any exclusions.
We provide clear, easy-to-understand plan comparisons from different insurers so you can choose the policy with the best cover. Our service is free - and it might just change your life for the better.