Understanding Acute Myeloid Leukaemia
Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, also known as AML, is a type of blood cancer that can affect people of any age, but is more common in people aged 60 and over.
AML Explained
There is a soft inner part within our larger bones known as bone marrow. When it works correctly, bone marrow functions like an efficient blood factory—producing healthy red and white blood cells, and platelets.2
However, in people with leukaemia, this blood factory malfunctions. Instead of producing a healthy balance of cells, it makes too many faulty white blood cells that become cancerous and abnormal.1 These are also known as ‘leukaemic blasts’.3
Without treatment, this malfunctioning blood factory continues to produce these abnormal white blood cells, which can lead to a wide range of symptoms.4 One of the aim of treatments is to slow the production of abnormal white blood cells until they are no longer a concern to doctors.1
Need support understanding specific AML words and phrases? Our Terminology Explained document helps to break down some of the most common terms and phrases.
Read next
Diagnosis Process
Guidance for those with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia and their loved ones, with information on testing and how the cancer is diagnosed
Managing AML
Guidance on Acute Myeloid Leukaemia treatments, what to expect from treatment in hospital and at home, as well as information on transplants
Life with AML
Support for those living with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia and their loved ones, including tips on returning home, finding a new routine and managing feelings after treatment
References
1. Macmillan Cancer Support. Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/leukaemia/acute-myeloid-leukaemia-aml [Last accessed: July 2023].
2. Cancer Research UK. What is acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)? https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/acute-myeloid-leukaemia-aml/about-acute-myeloid-leukaemia [Last accessed: July 2023].
3. Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Acute Myeloid Lymphoma. https://www.lls.org/leukemia/acute-myeloid-leukemia [Last accessed: July 2023].
4. Blood Cancer UK. AML Symptoms and diagnosis. Available from: https://bloodcancer.org.uk/understanding-blood-cancer/leukaemia/acute-myeloid-leukaemia/aml-symptoms-diagnosis/ [Last accessed: July 2023]
5. American Cancer Society, What is Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)?. Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/acute-myeloid-leukemia/about/what-is-aml.html [Last accessed: July 2023]
Website created and funded by Astellas. Developed and reviewed in close collaboration with healthcare professionals and AML patient organisations.
Caring for someone living with AML
Caring for someone with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, or AML, can be physically and emotionally challenging. Support for cancer patient and their families is available, but it can be hard to know where to start. Contact us for more information.
MAT-MY-NON-2023-00014 | Dec 2023