2. Median Survival Span: The Climbing Lifespan
A couple of decades ago, the median survival rate for CLL stood at around 15 to 20 years. That’s a span that’s daunting to many. It suggested that once diagnosed, the journey with CLL was, on average, a two-decade-long battle. But medical science isn’t static; it evolves. And with it, the survival rates have witnessed an upward shift.
Recent advancements in treatment techniques have played a pivotal role in changing these numbers. The emergence of targeted therapies and the strides made in the field of immunotherapies have proven to be game changers. As a result, the life expectancy of CLL patients has seen a positive uptrend. The newer therapies are not only more effective but also come with reduced toxicity levels, making them more patient-friendly.
But what does “median survival” truly signify? At its core, it means that half the people diagnosed with CLL will live longer than the estimated median. The other half, unfortunately, might not reach this benchmark. It’s a statistical measure, one that provides a generalized understanding of the expected life span post-diagnosis. (2)
