Leukemia

About leukemia

In leukaemia (blood cancer) there is an uncontrolled growth of the white blood cells. The leukaemia cells will take up the space or inhibit the growth of the normal blood cells in the bone marrow so that the bone marrow cannot produce enough normal blood cells.

Leukemia can be divided into two main groups: acute and chronic. Furthermore, the disease is divided into the main diagnoses acute myeloid leukemia (AML), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). In addition, multiple myeloma (bone marrow cancer), lymphoblastic and Burkitt leukemia / lymphoma, myelodysplastic disease and myeloploriferative disease are included in the leukaemia diagnoses.

Leukemia accounts for well over 3 percent of all cancers diagnosed in Norway. In children (0-14 years), however, this type of cancer is the most common, accounting for 1/3 of all cancer cases diagnosed in this age group. 

Risk factors

The cause of leukemia is unknown in most cases. However, long-term exposure to certain chemicals (such as benzene) and radiation have been put forward as factors that may increase the risk of acute leukaemias. 

Obesity has also been shown to cause some increase in risk.

Questions about cancer

The Cancer Registry of Norway is a research institution. Our professionals therefore do not answer questions about diagnosis, assessment, treatment and follow-up from patients or their relatives.

Inquiries about this information should be directed to your general practitioner, treating institution, or the Norwegian Cancer Society's advisory service at phone: +47 21 49 49 21.