Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that starts in your bone marrow, where several types of blood cells are made. When abnormal cells form in the bone marrow, they can then spread into your blood. Because leukemia often affects the white blood cells that fight off infections in your body, it can cause your immune system to not work as it should.
Many different types of leukemia blood cancer exist, and it can affect all ages. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 30% of all children with cancer have leukemia. But overall, this blood cancer type is still more common in adults than it is in children.
No matter what type of leukemia you’re facing, our team is ready with support and care throughout diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. Contact a patient navigator today to get help navigating your leukemia journey.
Our cancer programs have been caring for people with leukemia for decades. And we’re still committed to innovating the way we provide advanced blood cancer care to our communities.
From our holistic services to cancer research, we’re here with personalized care for your leukemia. Baylor University Medical Center, part of Baylor Scott & White Health, has one of the nation's oldest blood and marrow transplant programs and is the first North Texas provider to offer adult commercial use of CAR-T.
With a network of cancer care centers across North and Central Texas, we bring leukemia care to a location that’s convenient for you. If you need advanced care for your blood cancer, you’ll also have access to specialized programs and treatment options not available at every hospital. With us, you get a complete approach to care aimed at helping you treat leukemia better.
Baylor Scott & White Health is one of the largest networks of cancer centers in the nation accredited by the Commission on Cancer.
Nationally accredited by the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT).
A blood test called a complete blood count (CBC) is often the first step to diagnosing leukemia. A CBC measures the levels of different cells in your blood, including red blood cells and white blood cells. Your CBC lets your doctor know if you have levels of blood cells that aren’t in the normal range.
Your doctor may also test your bone marrow. A bone marrow aspiration takes a sample of marrow fluid. A bone marrow biopsy takes a sample of your bone with the fluid in it. These samples are taken using a hollow needle, typically in your hip bone. Then, the samples are tested in the lab. Other tests may be required, depending on your results.
If your tests show you have leukemia, our team of blood cancer specialists can help you plan the next steps for your specific diagnosis. And our patient navigators are here to provide you with emotional support and guidance for your whole cancer journey.
We know leukemia affects you in many ways. That’s why we care for every aspect of your well-being. Whether it’s coping with the emotions of a diagnosis or thriving after treatment, we offer complete cancer care for every stage of leukemia. Connect with a patient navigator, leukemia support group, resource center or our survivorship program today.
