Survival statistics for acute myeloid leukemia

Survival statistics for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are very general estimates and must be interpreted very carefully. Because these statistics are based on the experience of groups of people, they cannot be used to predict a particular person’s chances of survival.

There are many different ways to measure and report cancer survival statistics. Your doctor can explain these statistics and what they mean to you.

Net survival represents the probability (chance) of surviving cancer in the absence of other causes of death. It is used to give an estimate of the percentage of people who will survive cancer.

In Canada, the 5-year net survival for AML is 23%. This means that, on average, about 23% of people diagnosed with AML will live for at least 5 years.

The net survival for AML varies by age group.

Note: Adapted from Statistics Canada. Table 13-10-0158-01. Age-specific 5-year net survival estimates for primary sites of cancer, by sex, 3 years combined.

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a subtype of AML that is often treated very successfully. This success is reflected in the survival statistics. About 90% of people diagnosed with APL reach a complete remission. About 70% to 90% of people with APL who reach remission have long-term survival, and doctors consider them to be cured.

If you have AML, talk to your doctor about your prognosis. Prognosis depends on many factors, including:

• your medical history
• type of cancer
• stage
• characteristics of the cancer
• treatments chosen
• response to treatment

Only a doctor familiar with these factors can put all of this information together with survival statistics to arrive at a prognosis.