Leukemia
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood-forming cells that affects both adults and children.
Leukemia is the most common form of cancer diagnosed in children and adolescents, and
often arises very rapidly over a short period of time (acute form). In adults, leukemia
is more likely to take many years to develop (chronic form) and accounts for about 3% of
all cancer diagnosed annually. Leukemias are further grouped according to the type of blood
cell affected, with major subtypes including lymphocytic and myeloid types. The major childhood
leukemias include acute lymphocytic and acute myeloid leukemia, whereas in adults, major subtypes
include chronic lymphocytic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia. The causes of leukemia are not
well understood, but appear to involve a combination of hereditary and environmental factors.
About 145 new cases of Leukemia were diagnosed in New Mexico year 2013. The rate at which
Leukemia is newly diagnosed in New Mexico has remained fairly constant over the past 20 years.
In the U.S., leukemia occurs about one-third more frequently in males than in females.
Leukemia can occur at any age, but roughly 75% of cases are diagnosed among persons 50
years and older. Leukemia is the most common form of cancer in children, accounting for
about 33% of all childhood cancers. Leukemia generally occurs more often among Whites
than among persons of other race.
Scientists have not conclusively identified any particular risk factor that accounts for most cases of leukemia. Some known risk factors include:
Scientists have not conclusively identified any particular risk factor that accounts for most cases of leukemia. Some known risk factors include:
- High doses of ionized radiation.
- Genetic abnormalities, including Down syndrome.
- Rare viruses.
- Long-term benzene exposure.
- Smoking.
There are no proven methods or steps to take to prevent most forms of leukemia. Avoiding
workplace exposures to chemicals such as benzene and unnecessary radiation may help to
reduce a workers risk of leukemia.
- Age-adjusted Incidence Rates of Leukemia per 100,000 Population (Includes Counts)
- Age-adjusted Incidence Rates of Leukemia in Children Less Than 15 Years of Age per 1,000,000 Population (Includes Counts)
- Age-adjusted Incidence Rates of Leukemia in Children Less Than 20 Years of Age per 1,000,000 Population (Includes Counts)
