Questions and answers about leukemia

• April 29, 2024

In spite of the advances and the incessant investigation, the causes that cause this terrible cancer are still ignored. The foundation Josep Carreras against leukemia has developed a series of answers at questions most frequent about the disease. We all remember how the famous Catalan tenor fought in the flesh and beat the leukemia. Since its creation in July 1988, the foundation that bears his name has maintained a single objective: to ensure that leukemia be, some day, a 100% curable disease . According to the agency, although great scientific advances have been reached in recent years, it is still a fatal disease for 30% of children and half of adults.

Is leukemia hereditary?

For the medical staff of the Josep Carreras Foundation, the knowledge currently available allows us to affirm that leukemia it is not inherited . "The fact that it is sometimes observed in twin siblings seems to be because both are exposed to the same environmental risk factors."

Is it possible to infect the people who live with the sick person?

Leukemia is not a contagious disease either. The precautionary measures taken are to prevent the patient from becoming infected by having their defense mechanisms diminished; but never because he can infect those around you .

If I get blood tests every year, can they diagnose me in time?

Do not , since in most cases of acute leukemia a blood test done 2 weeks before of the diagnosis would give a normal result. Unlike other types of tumors, acute leukemia appears abruptly. Being a disease of the blood, when the first symptoms appear, the malignant cells are already distributed throughout the body. The disease does not remit itself, therefore, the person who suffers it must follow a rigorous treatment. "The malignant cells in their growth escape to the mechanisms of defense and control of the organism, leading inevitably to death. The only possibilities of cure are offered by specialized medical treatment, "say the doctors of the foundation.

And homeopathy, does it work?

"While some of the multiple treatments based on plant extracts, natural foods or similar can improve some of the patient's symptoms, does not exist any scientific evidence that makes us suppose that they can control and much less eradicate the disease ", clarifies the organism.

Among other aspects pointed out by the Josep Carreras Foundation, is the importance of good nutrition for the patient that involves getting enough calories and proteins to prevent weight loss and recover strength. Patients on treatment who receive correct nutrition often find themselves better and have more energy, which helps them overcome the side effects of such treatment. The relevance of maintaining a good musculature , since it atrophies very easily with inactivity. This is why it is very important for the patient to maintain their physical activity as much as possible.

Video Medicine: What Is Leukemia? | Cincinnati Children's (April 2024).