Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia

Frequently asked questions about chronic myeloid leukaemia

• Is chronic myeloid leukaemia hereditary?

  CML is not hereditary. Although genetic abnormalities can cause CML, these are not passed down from parents and instead occur during your lifetime.

• What causes chronic myeloid leukaemia?

  The causes of CML are not fully known. However, there are some factors which contribute to the risk of CML developing, including:

  • Age – Nearly 70% of all cases of CML are diagnosed in adults over the age of 40

  • Gender –Men are more likely to develop CML than women

  • Genetic abnormalities – Nearly all people with CML have a genetic abnormality known as the Philadelphia chromosome. It contains the BCR-ABL gene that tells leukaemia cells to grow and spread. The Philadelphia chromosome is not inherited and cannot be passed down

  • Exposure to radiation and certain chemicals – Exposure to high doses of radiation and benzene, as well as some chemotherapy treatments increase your risk of developing CML

• How common is chronic myeloid leukaemia?

  CML is more common in older people and very rare in children under 15. Around 750 people are diagnosed with CML each year in the UK.

• How is chronic lymphocytic myeloid diagnosed?

  There are many different tests that are used to diagnose CML, alongside a physical examination. This includes blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy. The Philadelphia chromosome can be detected in blood or bone marrow, and a DNA-based test called BCR-ABL1 will be performed at diagnosis and monitored throughout your treatment. You may also receive an ultrasound to identify if your spleen has been affected.

• What is the difference between chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)?

  CML and CLL are two forms of chronic leukaemia which develop from different types of white blood cells. CML develops from myeloid cells called granulocytes, while CLL develops from lymphocytes such as B-cells and T-cells.

• What can I do to decrease my risk of chronic myeloid leukaemia?

  There are no known ways to prevent CML. However, there are a number of lifestyle-related factors you can consider to reduce your risk of developing cancer overall, like:

  • Avoiding high doses of radiation and certain chemicals

  • Getting regular exercise – At least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day

  • Eating a healthy, balanced diet – Eat a fibre-rich diet from grain and legume sources, as well as enjoy a variety of fruit (2 serves) and vegetables (5 serves) per day, limit your intake of salt and saturated fats, and avoid all processed meat