leukaemia

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a cancer of the bone marrow and blood and is the most common form of leukemia in adults. Despite its frightening diagnosis, recent studies suggest that AML may have some positive benefits.

Firstly, AML is associated with lower rates of certain age-related diseases such as stroke, Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis and other chronic conditions. This unexpected discovery was made when researchers compared the medical records of individuals diagnosed with AML with those of their relatives who did not have the condition. It was found that while relatives of those with AML had an increased risk of developing age-related conditions, AML patients themselves had a decreased risk.

Secondly, AML has been linked to better cognitive performance. Studies suggest that those suffering from AML were more likely to perform better on memory and thinking tests than non-patients. This improved performance may be due to a heightened cognitive awareness as a result of undergoing intensive treatments.

Thirdly, AML patients have a lower risk of developing other types of cancer later in life. Research has shown that people with AML have a lower risk of developing other types of cancer such as prostate, pancreatic, and whole-organ cancers. This may be due to the treatment regimens used to treat AML, which may be protective against other cancers.

Finally, patients undergoing AML treatments often report feeling a sense of hope and resilience. Despite their grave diagnosis, patients describe feeling an upsurge of strength and determination to fight their disease. While most chemotherapy treatments are arduous, testimonies from AML patients have revealed that they are often inspired by the progress they make in their recovery.

Overall, AML can have some unexpected positive benefits. While it remains a serious and life-threatening disease, AML patients often describe feeling a sense of hope and strength in their journey and have a lower risk of developing certain age-related diseases and cancers.