Can anemia lead to leukemia?
In general, anemia does not cause leukemia. If experiencing any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Anemia refers to a condition in which the number of red blood cells or the level of hemoglobin in the blood falls below normal, resulting in reduced oxygen delivery to various parts of the body. Anemia may be caused by various factors such as iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency, chronic diseases, genetic factors, or blood loss. However, these causes do not lead to changes in cellular structure nor do they cause leukemia.
Leukemia is a type of malignant tumor that primarily affects the bone marrow and lymphatic system, interfering with the normal production of blood cells. Its occurrence is associated with viral infections, radiation exposure, genetic factors, and chemical agents, but there is no direct causal relationship between leukemia and anemia. Although patients with leukemia often exhibit symptoms of anemia, such as pallor and fatigue, these symptoms result from leukemia cells occupying bone marrow space and suppressing the production of normal blood cells, rather than anemia itself triggering leukemia.
In daily life, it is important to consume a nutritious diet that is high in calories, protein, vitamins, and essential minerals to aid in the recovery of hematopoietic function.