Acute myelogenous leukemia, also known as AML, affects the blood and bone marrow. The blood cells of the body are made up of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Abnormal growth of red or white blood cells causes AML to develop and progress in its victims.
According to recent statistics, an estimated 11,900 new cases of acute myelogenous leukemia are diagnosed in the United States yearly. AML is most commonly caused by benzene exposure which is not genetic or contagious and, according to research, the average age of an AML victim is 65 years.
Benzene Exposure
Benzene, a known carcinogen, is a chemical compound that is considered highly flammable. An important industrial solvent, benzene is used in the production of synthetic rubber, plastics and drugs.Various forms of cancer, including acute myelogenous leukemia, are linked to exposure to benzene.
Exposure to benzene can cause also cause the following health complications:
- Dizziness and confusion
- Various forms of cancer, mainly leukemia
- Depression of the immune system
- Development of anemia
Symptoms of Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
Oftentimes, victims of acute myelogenous leukemia are unaware of their exposure to benzene and inhale or ingest the chemical while at work or in their day to day lives without being aware of the risks. Acute myelogenous leukemia, an often fatal disease if not diagnosed early, can result from extended exposure to benzene.
Some common symptoms of acute myelogenous leukemia are:
- Swelling in the abdomen
- Bone or joint pain
- Shortness of breath and fatigue
- Repeated infections
Treatment for Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
Since AML can progress at a rapid pace, doctors usually want to treat patients suffering from the disease right away. In order to plan the right treatment for each patient, doctors look at several risk factors, which are known as prognostic factors. Examples of common risk factors for those with acute myelogenous leukemia are the person’s age and the subtype of their AML.
Among the different types of treatments that are normally used to help patients living with AML, are:
- Chemotherapy- Drugs are used to destroy the cancer cells in order to prevent them from growing
- A bone marrow or cord blood transplant
- All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) if the patient has the subtype of AML known as promyelocytic leukemia
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia due to benzene exposure, speak with an experienced and trustworthy attorney who will evaluate your case and ensure that you receive the legal guidance and support you need.
