This podcast features Dr Sarah Smith, a GP and member of the Leukaemia Care advisory panel, discussing the importance of early diagnosis of acute leukaemia.
Learn how:
- Leukaemia is often diagnosed late, with 37% of cases first identified in A&E, leading to poorer outcomes.
- Common leukaemia symptoms include fatigue, repeated infections, bruising, and bleeding.
- Symptoms like shortness of breath, fever, night sweats, and bone/joint pain can also be indicators of leukaemia.
- GPs are advised to have a low threshold for ordering full blood counts if leukaemia is suspected, and to act quickly to get results.
The emotional impact of a leukaemia diagnosis is significant, so GPs must communicate sensitively when raising concerns.
