Who gets childhood leukemia and what causes it?
Acute leukemia is the most common childhood cancer. That said, it is very rare, with approximately 3500 children in the US diagnosed each year. It seems to strike children randomly, but is most commonly diagnosed at ages 2 to 7, more common in Caucasians than other races and slightly more common in boys than girls. The cause is unknown. Since there are many different types of leukemia, scientists believe that each type may have different causes. In general, it is believed that genetic mutation, environmental factors and potentially viral factors may all contribute to leukemia. Before being diagnosed, AJ had never had any health issues at all. After hearing about AJ’s diagnosis, many people have asked us what the signs and symptoms of leukemia are, so we are listing them below (though keep in mind leukemia is very rare and many of the symptoms mimic those that are normally associated with minor illnesses such as the flu): • Fatigue or weakness • Pale skin • Unexplained or prolonged feve
