Leukemia: Information, Research and Support
Leukemia is the most common blood cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, about 29,000 adults and 2,000 children are diagnosed with the disease each year. If you or someone you love is affected by leukemia, you'll want answers. Use the Leukemia Web Guide to find reliable information.
Expand All Guide SectionsWhat Is Leukemia?
The best sources on the Web for learning about what leukemia is are reputable medical organizations, such as the Mayo Clinic and the National Cancer Institute. You don't have to be a doctor or health professional to understand the information on these sites; most provide thorough overviews of the disease written to be accessible to the general public.
Top Sites for What Leukemia Is
For an overview of leukemia ...
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
explains what leukemia is and covers the four types of leukemia: Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML), Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL), Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). Medical terms found in the text are hyperlinked to the site's glossary.
National Cancer Institute
has information for both the patient and the medical professional, so health-savvy folks or those knowledgeable about medicine can read the same information that's being given to physicians. Find a dictionary of cancer terms and news about the latest clinical trials related to leukemia.
Mayo Clinic
provides leukemia information in simple, easy-to-understand language that clearly explains terms and jargon. This is the ideal site for someone who wants to learn about leukemia without wading through unfamiliar medical terms. Find information about the signs and symptoms, risk factors, screening and treatment of the disease.
MedlinePlus
has useful diagrams to explain leukemia, perfect for those who prefer visual learning. The narration and associated animations make this a good learning tool for children. Look for slides that introduce issues like symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, as well as facts about chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Leukemia Symptoms and Diagnosis
Leukemia symptoms can vary based on the patient, but frequent infections, weakness, bone and joint pain, and swollen lymph nodes are commonly experienced effects. Use the sites below to learn the common signs and symptoms of leukemia, and get accounts of how it's diagnosed.
Insights for Leukemia Symptoms and Diagnosis
- Leukemia generally requires multiple tests to diagnose. These Web sites include information about the various tests your doctor may perform. Due to the fact that different physicians and different types of leukemia require different tests, patients may find they have to undergo a variety of tests before receiving a final diagnosis.
Top Sites for Leukemia Symptoms and Diagnosis
For an overview of leukemia symptoms and diagnosis ...
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
has detailed information about symptoms for each subtype of leukemia, and a "Diagnosis" link for each type. Find out what type of tests are used to diagnose the disease, as well as details about the tests and how the results are interpreted.
For leukemia symptoms ...
CureResearch.com
breaks down the symptoms of leukemia by system and body part. The symptoms include links to more detailed information about the condition. The margins are littered with Google ads at the top, but keep scrolling down and you'll find a comprehensive list of symptoms.
For leukemia diagnosis ...
MedicineNet.com
gives an overview of the different types of tests your physician might use to diagnose leukemia. The Web site includes links to more information about the tests, such as how they're performed and how samples are obtained.
Oncology Channel
includes scientific information about leukemia diagnostic tests, such as specific measures of red blood cells. The definitions of the tests are fairly detailed and may include terms that require a layman to use a medical dictionary.
Leukemia Treatment
Leukemia treatment varies depending on the type of leukemia, the stage of the disease and the patient's individual factors. Nonetheless, there are some common treatments, such as chemotherapy, biological therapy and radiation therapy that are used for leukemia. Use the sites below to learn more about leukemia treatment.
Insights for Leukemia Treatment
- The sites in this section provide an overview of the variety of leukemia treatment options available. Researching individual leukemia treatments will yield deeper information about the preparation and procedure specific to that treatment.
Top Sites for Leukemia Treatment
MD Anderson Cancer Center
at The University of Texas provides a simple overview of leukemia treatment, written for the layman. The Web site lists various treatments, and explains how these procedures are performed in easy-to-understand terms.
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
covers various types of leukemia treatment, as well as detailed information about the procedures. Use the links to learn how each procedure is performed, how to prepare for it and how it treats the disease.
National Cancer Institute
provides treatment facts for both the patient and the physician. The patient information includes links to definitions of medical jargon. The physician information cites medical journals and papers.
Oncology Channel
gives detailed information about leukemia treatments for each of the subtypes of the disease, and may be useful for those who have already identified a specific type of leukemia.
Leukemia Hospitals
Although many hospitals treat leukemia, some are particularly renowned, or provide special services. Teaching hospitals, for example, often offer participation in clinical trials that are unavailable at other facilities. The sites below can acquaint you with some of the better known leukemia hospitals.
Insights for Leukemia Hospitals
- Look for links to "Make an Appointment" or "Patient Referral" to find out how to become a patient at these hospitals. You'll either get a phone number or detailed information about the referral process.
- In general, children's hospitals tend to have more non-medical programs for kids, such as day camps for kids with cancer or other entertainment-type events. If you're a parent with a child who has leukemia, look for links to other services offered by the hospital.
Top Sites for Leukemia Hospitals
For everyone ...
MD Anderson Cancer Center
at The University of Texas boasts "the largest practice of leukemia subspecialists in the world." They treat adult leukemia patients with all different types of leukemia. The Web site includes an online database of the hospital's open clinical trials for all types of cancer.
Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center
is a renowned teaching and research hospital. All four types of leukemia are treated at this hospital, so the facility has both adults and children as patients. The hospital uses an individualized approach to treatment and regularly runs clinical trials.
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
includes more than 30 experts in the field of leukemia. The hospital performs various clinical trials that are open to patient participation. Visit the site to get information about becoming a patient.
Mayo Clinic
has three locations: Arizona, Florida and Minnesota. Adults with leukemia are treated at all locations, but children are mostly treated in Minnesota. The Web site includes "Patient Stories," so potential patients can get a greater understanding of the disease and how it will affect their life.
For children only ...
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
is probably one of the best-known children's hospitals. The Web site includes a phone number and e-mail address that parents can use to contact the hospital if they want their child to be treated. This research hospital was instrumental in combination therapy for children with leukemia, and it continues to research new ways to cure and control the disease.
The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
was ranked the best pediatric hospital in 2007 by U.S. News & World Report. Find resources for the family, such as psychosocial services and financial assistance, as well as information about their research.
Children's Hospital Boston
treats children and adolescents with leukemia. Their staff members are experts in the field of childhood leukemia, and the Web site includes detailed information about the physicians.
Lucile Packard Children's Hospital
has experts on staff who specialize in bone marrow transplant and stem cell transplant. The Web site includes information about the physicians and services offered by the hospital. The site also offers a brief overview of the hospital's current research.
The Children's Hospital
offers a full range of services, and their Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders treats more than 1,500 patients each year. The Web site offers a variety of links to resources, including cancer associations and a health library.
Clinical Trials for Leukemia
Clinical trials for leukemia allow patients to test new medications or treatments that are not yet available through traditional sources. In some cases, these groundbreaking drugs or surgeries can make a difference in the outcome of the disease.
Insights for Clinical Trials for Leukemia
- Although these Web sites list clinical trials from a variety of hospitals and research centers, none of them are comprehensive. As a result, it's smart to check them all on a regular basis.
- Look for a link to e-mail updates or an e-mail newsletter. This way, you'll be notified about newly available and upcoming clinical trials.
- Most research hospitals offer clinical trials. Learn what trials are being offered by visiting the hospital Web site.
Top Sites for Clinical Trials for Leukemia
For an introduction to clinical trials ...
MedlinePlus
offers a detailed introduction to clinical trials.
For finding clinical trials ...
Acurian
offers a search feature for clinical trials. Using the search feature, choose leukemia from the list, then narrow your search by state. The results include a very basic overview of the trial, some information about who may qualify and contact information. Join the Web site (membership is free) and you'll be notified by e-mail about new trials.
National Cancer Institute
offers a search for clinical trials. The search is quite specific, as you choose the type of cancer as well as the stage or subset. You can also filter by the type of trial and its location. International trials are also included.
ClinicalTrials.gov
is a service of the U.S. National Institutes of Health. You can make the search as broad or specific as you'd like. The results include a note marked "Recruiting" or "Not Yet Recruiting" so you know if the trial is currently accepting participants.
Leukemia Organizations
There are numerous nonprofit leukemia organizations that focus on raising funds for leukemia research, education, patient care and treatment. As part of their programs to increase awareness, organization Web sites provide a wealth of information for leukemia patients and families. Learn about their programs and research work, and access thorough, reputable information on leukemia at their sites.
Insights for Leukemia Organizations
- If you're interested in contributing financially to any of these organizations, learn how your donations will be used by consulting that organization's "Mission Statement." This usually includes a brief overview of the association's focus and distribution of funds, such as the research they've supported.
- If you're looking for financial assistance as a leukemia patient, contact these organizations directly through their "Contact" page. If the association is unable to help you, they may be able to guide you to the appropriate organization.
- These organizations are also a good place to start if you want housing support or counseling during leukemia treatment. Again, contacting the association directly will usually get you a response.
Top Sites for Leukemia Organizations
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
provides free information to the public. Also find information about financial support, treatment trials and advocacy. If you're looking to volunteer your time for leukemia, this organization has plenty of opportunities available.
The Children's Leukemia Research Association
focuses on raising funds for leukemia research through donations. The association uses the money to fund medical research grants and to provide patient aid. Although the Web site lacks a professional look, the organization has a solid reputation.
Leukemia Research Foundation
uses a variety of fundraising techniques that can be accessed online, including an eBay store and an Amazon "Wish List." Look for links under the "you can help" tab. The organization funds research aiming to discover causes and cures of leukemia.
Lauri Strauss Leukemia Foundation
is designed to fund leukemia research, conduct bone marrow drives and provide education to the public. Based in New York, the organization's Web site includes information about their grants, fellowships and board of directors.
DKMS
is an organization that helps match bone marrow donors with recipients. They accept monetary donations through their Web site. The organization sponsors donor drives to encourage folks to donate bone marrow, and they maintain a registry in their attempt to link donors with patients.
Leukemia Research and News
Medical researchers are always working to develop new medications, treatments and screenings for leukemia. New research related to the disease is regularly published, and clinical trials of new treatments are frequently performed. Read on to find links to the latest leukemia research and news.
Insights for Leukemia Research and News
- Medical research is either published in raw form in research journals, or summarized in lay terms for news stories and press release.
- The more you read about leukemia, the more familiar you'll become with its terminology. If you need assistance with definitions when you first begin your research, try a medical dictionary like this one from MedlinePlus.
- New research is published regularly. Some of these Web sites offer e-mail newsletters or XML news feeds so you automatically get updated about new leukemia research.
Top Sites for Leukemia Research and News
National Cancer Institute
provides a list of the results of recent clinical trials. Click on a particular trial for a longer report on what it entailed, and what it means for the future of the disease.
Medical News Today
provides an XML news feed about current leukemia research. Get the news through a feed reader so you're regularly updated about the latest leukemia information. Most of the information comes from press releases, and it covers everything from clinical trials to gene research.
ScienceDaily
offers news on leukemia research gathered from around the Web.
Leukemia Awareness
If you or someone you love has leukemia, you may wish to help in some way. Many organizations and associations sponsor fundraising events to raise money for leukemia research and patients, and to increase leukemia awareness. Participating in an event can help increase your knowledge about leukemia, as well as give you an opportunity to contribute to a worthwhile cause.
Insights for Leukemia Awareness
- Many of the organizations that host events are also looking for volunteers. Look for a "How You Can Help" or "Volunteer" link if you want to contribute your time to the cause. You can also e-mail the organization directly.
- If you're curious about the attire or style of an event, look for "Past Events" or "Past Event Photos." Most of these Web sites include photographs or descriptions of events from previous years
- The Web sites recommended below represent only a selection of events raising money for leukemia, and they may not take place in your area. Contact an organization to see if there's an event in your area, or enter "leukemia fundraising in (name of your town)" into a search engine.
Top Sites for Leukemia Awareness
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
regularly hosts events related to the disease. Most of the events are athletic, such as walks, marathons and hikes. If you prefer something more sedentary, click on "More Events" to find other activities such as a drive campaign and media events.
Leukemia Research Foundation
hosts fundraising events such as musical performances, softball tournaments, fashion shows and charity auctions. The organization is always seeking volunteers. Note that most events occur in or near Chicago.
American Cancer Society
offers a variety of events and programs in which you can support fundraising and legislation. Look for events in your area using the zip code or city search fields on the right.
Leukemia Support
Sometimes the best support comes from other people who have lived through the same experience. Making contact with people who have leukemia—or their family members—may be a comfort to many. Fortunately, the Web provides access to leukemia support through message forums and lists that allow those affected by leukemia to interact with each other.
Insights for Leukemia Support
- The most active message forums tend to be those on larger organization or medical Web sites. They're the best place to go for information and news. Smaller message boards may offer more personal support, as many participants are longstanding members who have become Internet friends.
- If you prefer direct, in-person contact for leukemia support, many of these Web sites also include resources to help you find local leukemia support groups. Try looking for a subject or thread about "Local Groups" or your specific state.
Top Sites for Leukemia Support
For discussion forums ...
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
has a very active discussion board. The forum is designed to provide both support and information to those who are dealing with leukemia. The site is moderated and the overall tone is supportive.
HealthBoards
has a leukemia forum that is moderated and simple to navigate. It gets just a few new posts a day, though most posts have at least one reply.
For other leukemia support resources ...
Association of Cancer Online Resources
has a huge database of cancer mailing lists, including information about the number of subscribers. Not all of them are related to leukemia, but there are more than a few. Many of the lists are targeted to a specific audience, so browse through to find the one that best fits your needs.
Blog for a Cure
links to a variety of blogs on acute lymphocytic leukemia.
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