Leukemia is the invasion of the bone marrow by the abnormal white
blood cells so that the production of red blood cells stagnates.
Every year in Turkey, we see 1000-1500 new children with Leukemia.
Survival is improved whenever a child receives early diagnosis and
rapid treatment. The cause of the illness is uncertain but
environmental and genetic factors are suspected.
High fever
Chronic fatigue
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Nose and skin bleeding
Anemia
Enlargement of the lymph nodes
Enlargement of the spleen and liver
It requires a very long, hard and expensive treatment. Patients
diagnosed with Leukemia need to take numerous drugs and chemotherapy
treatment for at least 2.5 years. As a result, 70-80 % of the patients
may improve. Only 5 % require bone marrow transplant if the
appropriate donor is found.
In Turkey, chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant are applied
quiet successfully.
PROBLEMS OF THE CHILDREN WITH LEUKEMIA:
They can not go to school regularly because of heavy treatment.
Their friends insult them and they can not make friends easily.
People think that these children are already lost.
Ignorance of community about Leukemia. Because of the mask
they are wearing, people think that Leukemia is contagious.
They are not able to join many of the social activities. (movie,
theatre,...)
They are not able to eat their favourite foods. (chocolate, candy,
coke,...)
Hard to find blood whenever they need.
Poverty is a big problem for the children and their families.
Many parents who accompany their children in the hospital are fired
from their jobs because of their extended leave of absence.
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