Palliative treatment for CML

In rare cases of advanced chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) – such as CML that is not responding to available treatments – the medical team may talk to you about palliative treatment (sometimes called supportive care).

Improving quality of life with palliative treatment

Palliative treatment helps to improve your quality of life by managing the symptoms of leukaemia without trying to cure the disease. Many people think that palliative treatment is for people at the end of their life; however, it can help people at any stage. It is about living as long as possible in the most satisfying way you can.

Managing symptoms and slowing progress of leukaemia

As well as slowing the progress of leukaemia, palliative treatment can help to relieve pain and manage other symptoms. Treatment may include blood transfusions and short courses of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or other medicines. If you have ongoing symptoms, ask for a referral to the symptom management or palliative care team.

Comprehensive care from a palliative care team

Palliative treatment is one aspect of palliative care, in which a team of health professionals aims to meet your physical, emotional, cultural, spiritual and social needs. The team also supports families and carers. Your care may be led by a specialist palliative care team or by your GP and a community nurse.

For more on this, see Palliative care and Living with advanced cancer, or call Cancer Council 13 11 20.

→ READ MORE: Life after treatment for CML

Find out how palliative treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve people’s quality of life without trying to cure the disease.

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