Is Leukemia Considered a Critical Illness?

Leukemia: A Serious Disease with High Mortality and Recurrence Rates

Leukemia is categorized as a critical illness due to its significant mortality and recurrence rates. It represents a malignant clonal disorder of hematopoietic stem cells, characterized by the unchecked proliferation of leukemia cells that suppress normal hematopoiesis, leading to a range of clinical manifestations in patients.

The therapeutic strategies for leukemia encompass chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Among these, chemotherapy stands as a primary treatment modality, employing chemical agents to eradicate or impede the growth of cancerous cells. Radiotherapy utilizes high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells, while targeted therapy specifically targets genetic mutations present in the disease.

HSCT involves transplanting healthy hematopoietic stem cells into the patient's body to restore normal blood cell production. Despite remarkable advancements in leukemia treatment, the disease remains severe. Statistics indicate that the 5-year survival rate for leukemia patients is approximately 30% to 40%, implying that 70% to 80% of patients succumb to the disease within five years.

Even with aggressive treatment, leukemia has a propensity for recurrence, often rendering subsequent cures challenging. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are paramount for leukemia patients. Physicians devise individualized treatment plans based on the patient's condition and closely monitor their progress. Additionally, patients' active participation in treatment, coupled with a positive mindset and healthy lifestyle, are crucial for enhancing therapeutic outcomes and quality of life.