Spotting acute leukaemia early in general practice


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Nov 25 2024 27 mins   1

This podcast features Dr Sarah Smith, a GP and member of the @leukaemiacare 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.


#Leukaemia #EarlyDiagnosis #GPEducation #BloodCancer #MedicalEducation