Treatment Outcomes
In recent years, the Food and Drug Administration has approved new therapies for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Researchers are studying other possible new treatments in clinical trials. Some studies suggest that newer treatment combinations and approaches may improve survival length.
Treatment outcomes are influenced by several factors, including but not limited to:
- the disease's stage
- the presence or lack of certain factors associated with higher-risk disease
- your age
- overall health of the patient
Studies suggest that newer treatment combinations and approaches may improve the length of survival. People with CLL should consult with their doctors to discuss individual potential outcomes.
Relative Survival Rate
Relative survival compares (1) how long a person with a disease survives after being diagnosed to (2) how long a person without the disease lives. Survival statistics for CLL are usually reported as five-year survival rates:
- Patients diagnosed with CLL have a total averaged five-year relative survival rate for 2002 to 2008 of 82.4 percent.
- There will be an estimated 4,580 deaths from CLL in 2012.
Treatment Results
Treatment results and outcomes vary among patients. It's also important to understand that the latest five-year survival statistics only reflect rates up to 2007. Recent and ongoing improvements in treatment and care may not be reflected in these rates. Newer treatment therapies, progress in stem cell transplantation, better supportive care and studies of new drugs in clinical trials are all contributing to improved outcomes and quality of life for people diagnosed with blood cancers.
Source: SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results) Cancer Statistics Review, 1975-2008, National Cancer Institute, 2012.
