Kentera, Mandy

Title:
Childhood vs Adult Leukemia

Abstract:
Leukemia, a cancer of the white blood cells, is the most common childhood cancer but is rarely recognized as a cancer associated with adults. However, in our literature-based research, we found that despite its prevalence in children, 75%-80% of children are cured (Greaves), while only 50% of adults reach long lasting remission. Studies support the idea that adult and childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are different diseases that arise from dissimilar causes and require different treatments. Due to this discovery, we decided to focus our research on the differences in the demographics and biology of adult and childhood leukemia. We conclude that researchers must make more targeted approaches to treatment to accommodate for the differences between adult and childhood cancer, as well as investigate more effective prevention strategies that coalesce with various socioeconomic statuses.