Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)

Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It usually develops very slowly. 

You might not have symptoms when you are diagnosed. Your CML may be picked up during a routine blood test. 

Your GP will ask you about your symptoms and might arrange an urgent blood test or refer you to a specialist.

Survival depends on many factors. These figures can only give you a general guide about survival for CML.

There are different targeted drug treatments for CML. Your specialist doctor will talk with you about your treatment options. 

CML is divided into 3 phases: chronic, accelerated and blast. Knowing the phase helps your doctor decide which treatment you need.
 

Research is looking into the causes and treatment of CML. Find out about the latest UK research and how you can take part in trials.

Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is often a slowly developing condition. Treatment can keep it under control for many years. Find out how to cope and what support is available.
 

We don’t know what causes most cases of CML. But there are some factors that may increase your risk of developing it.