Can someone in their 20s develop leukemia?

Patients in their twenties may develop leukemia, a malignant clonal disease of hematopoietic stem cells, which proliferates extensively in bone marrow and other hematopoietic tissues and infiltrates other non-hematopoietic tissues and organs.

Situations Where Leukemia is Unlikely to Occur

1. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): ALL is a common type of leukemia in children, accounting for approximately 75% of all childhood leukemia cases. Most patients exhibit no significant symptoms prior to onset, while a minority may experience anemia, bleeding, or infection. For patients detected and treated early, the prognosis is relatively good.

2. Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): CML originates from neutrophil progenitor cells in the bone marrow and is characterized by an increased proportion of abnormally proliferating neutrophils and their derivative cells in the bone marrow, accompanied by varying degrees of extramedullary infiltration of blast cells, manifesting as symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, low-grade fever, and night sweats.

Situations Where Leukemia May Occur

If a patient has a weakened immune system and is exposed to viruses, radiation, or other chemical substances, it may lead to genetic mutations, ultimately triggering the development of leukemia. Patients with hematological disorders are also prone to progressing to leukemia. It is recommended that patients maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients, with a particular emphasis on protein-rich foods such as eggs and milk, to enhance their overall resistance. Additionally, regular follow-up examinations are crucial for timely monitoring of disease progression.