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In a sombre turn of events, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State passed away at the age of 67 after battling a prolonged and mysterious illness, later revealed to be Leukaemia. The announcement of his death on a Wednesday, December, 2023 morning signifies the conclusion of a distinguished career for the Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association. Governor Akeredolu’s demise has drawn attention to leukaemia, a complex and often misunderstood condition.
This article delves into what leukaemia is, how it develops, its impact on the body, and what can be done to manage and treat this condition. Governor Akeredolu’s battle with leukaemia serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness, early detection, and advancements in medical research.
What is leukaemia?
Leukaemia is a type of cancer that originates in the blood-forming tissues, primarily the bone marrow. Its name comes from the Greek words “leukos” (white) and “haima” (blood), referring to the abnormal white blood cells characteristic of the disease.
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Unlike many other forms of cancer, leukaemia does not typically result in the formation of umors. Instead, it involves the rapid and uncontrolled production of immature white blood cells, which overcrowd the bone marrow and interfere with the production of normal blood cells.
How Leukaemia Develops
Leukaemia begins in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. In healthy individuals, the bone marrow generates a balance of red blood cells (which carry oxygen), white blood cells (which fight infections), and platelets (which help with blood clotting).
In leukaemia, mutations in the DNA of bone marrow cells cause the uncontrolled growth of abnormal white blood cells. These cells fail to function properly and can crowd out healthy blood cells, leading to severe health complications.
The Impact of Leukaemia on the Body
An excess of abnormal white blood cells disrupts the normal balance of blood cells, leading to several serious issues.
- Reduced Oxygen Supply: A lack of healthy red blood cells means tissues and organs do not receive enough oxygen, causing fatigue and weakness.
- Compromised Immunity: The abnormal white blood cells are ineffective in fighting infections, leaving the body vulnerable to illnesses.
- Impaired Blood Clotting: A shortage of platelets increases the risk of excessive bleeding and bruising.
Types of Leukaemia
Leukaemia is categorised into four main types based on how quickly the disease develops and the type of blood cells affected:
- Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia (ALL):
- Common in children and young adults.
- Progresses rapidly and requires immediate treatment.
- Acute Myelogenous Leukaemia (AML):
- Adults, particularly those over 65, are primarily affected.
- It progresses swiftly and stands as one of the most prevalent forms among adults.
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL):
- This condition is prevalent among older adults, typically those above 65.
- The condition advances gradually and may not exhibit any symptoms at first.
- Chronic Myelogenous Leukaemia (CML):
- Occurs mostly in older adults.
- Frequently diagnosed during a chronic phase, the symptoms emerge gradually.
Causes and Risk Factors of Leukaemia
Leukaemia accounts for approximately 3.2% of all new cancer cases worldwide and ranks as the 10th most common cancer globally. While the exact causes of leukaemia remain unclear, several factors are known to increase the risk:
- Genetic Mutations: Changes in the DNA of bone marrow cells can trigger leukaemia.
- Family History: A history of leukaemia within a family raises the risk.
- Radiation Exposure: High levels of radiation, such as from nuclear accidents or medical treatments, can increase risk.
- Chemical Exposure: Prolonged exposure to chemicals like benzene is a known risk factor.
- Previous Cancer Treatments: Some chemotherapy and radiation therapies for other cancers may increase leukaemia risk.
Symptoms of Leukaemia
Symptoms of leukaemia can vary depending on the type and severity of the disease but often include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Fever, chills, and night sweats
- Frequent infections
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Bruising and swift bleeding
- Bone or joint pain
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
These symptoms may also mimic other medical conditions, making early diagnosis challenging but crucial.
Diagnosing Leukaemia
The diagnosis of leukaemia often begins with routine blood tests, which can reveal abnormalities in blood cell counts. If leukaemia is suspected, additional tests may be conducted:
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: We examine a sample of bone marrow for abnormal cells.
- Imaging Tests: To check for organ involvement, use CT scans and MRIs.
- Genetic Testing: Identifies specific mutations linked to different types of leukaemia.
Treatment Options for Leukaemia
The treatment of leukaemia depends on several factors, including the type of leukaemia, the patient’s age, and overall health. Common treatment methods include:
- Chemotherapy:
- Drugs are used to either kill or stop the growth of cancerous cells.
- Often the primary treatment for many types of leukaemia.
- Radiation Therapy:
- Uses high-energy radiation to target and destroy leukaemia cells.
- Targeted Therapy:
- Focuses on specific proteins or genes involved in leukaemia cell growth.
- Immunotherapy:
- Stimulates the immune system to attack leukaemia cells.
- Stem Cell Transplant:
- Healthy cells from a donor replace the diseased bone marrow.
Governor Akeredolu’s Battle with Leukaemia
Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s struggle with leukaemia has brought attention to the challenges posed by this complex disease. Despite his illness, Akeredolu continued to serve the people of Ondo State with dedication and resilience.
His passing underscores the importance of early detection and access to advanced treatments. It also highlights the need for increased awareness about leukaemia, particularly in Nigeria, where many people lack knowledge about the disease and its symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leukaemia
What is leukaemia?
Leukaemia is a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood, causing the production of abnormal white blood cells.
What are the symptoms of leukaemia?
Common symptoms include fatigue, fever, frequent infections, swollen lymph nodes, and straightforward bruising or bleeding.
What causes leukaemia?
While the exact cause is unknown, genetic mutations, radiation exposure, and family history are known risk factors.
How is leukaemia diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and imaging studies to identify abnormalities in blood cell production.
Can leukaemia be cured?
Yes, some types of leukaemia can be cured, especially in children. However, outcomes vary depending on the type and stage of the disease.
The importance of awareness and early detection.
Governor Akeredolu’s battle with leukaemia serves as a wake-up call for greater awareness and education about this life-threatening disease. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, yet many people are unaware of the warning signs.
Increased investment in medical research and healthcare infrastructure is essential to combating leukaemia and other cancers in Nigeria. Support groups and resources can also play a crucial role in helping patients and their families cope with the physical and emotional challenges of a leukaemia diagnosis.
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Conclusion
Leukaemia, while complex and challenging, is not insurmountable. Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s life and legacy remind us of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. His battle with leukaemia has shed light on the condition, inspiring conversations about early detection, treatment advancements, and the need for greater public awareness.
As we honour his memory, let us commit to supporting efforts to improve healthcare access, promote cancer research, and educate the public about the importance of early diagnosis. Together, we can work toward a future where leukaemia and other cancers no longer claim the lives of those we hold dear.
