Leukemia

Leukemia refers to cancer of the blood and/or bone marrow; the term actually covers a number of diseases that are classified as "hematological neoplasms." This form of cancer is characterized by an abnormal growth in the number of white blood cells. The disease may be acute (rapid, sudden onset) or chronic (developing over a period of several years). The former is more common in children, while the latter variety primarily strikes older people. Symptoms may include:

• frequent infections and illnesses (due to compromised immune system)
• frequent and easy bruising and bleeding
• anemia
• flu-like symptoms (chills and fever)
• chronic fatigue
• nausea
• headaches

Risk Factors include:

• Exposure to nuclear radiation
• HIV
• Exposure to industrial chemicals such as benzene or alkaloids (leukemia has been known to develop in patients who have been treated with chemotherapy for other cancers)

Several studies linking leukemia to asbestos exposure date from the late 1970s, the most recent of which was published in 2005. One study conducted in the late 1980s found that half of the subjects who suffered from leukemia had a history of asbestos exposure. Most notable in these studies is the fact that the type of asbestos found consisted of crocidolite, or "blue" asbestos, an exceptionally deadly form of this substance that is known to cause mesothelioma. If someone has worked with or around asbestos and begins to show signs and symptoms of mesothelioma cancer, it is advisable to consult with a physician. There are several different types of mesothelioma disease including peritoneal mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma. Unfortunately there is no known cure for mesothelioma.

While the relationship is not yet fully understood, it is known that these microscopic fibers can enter the bloodstream through the lungs; it is reasonable to believe that asbestos fibers may interact with blood cells in the same way they do those of the lungs and viscera.

Sources

Jameson, J.N. et. al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. (New York: McGraw-Hill, 2005)

Kagan, E., et al. "Asbestos-associated Neoplasms of B Cell Lineage." American Journal of Medicine, vol. 67 no. 2 (August 1979).