What is Aplastic Anemia?
“Aplastic anemia is a disease in which the bone marrow does not make enough blood cells for the body. The 3 types of blood cells your body needs are: red blood cells (to carry oxygen), white blood cells (to fight infection), and platelets (to control bleeding). When all 3 types of blood cells are very low in number, the person has severe aplastic anemia (SAA).
Aplastic anemia is rare. In the United States, about 600-900 people are diagnosed each year, according to the Aplastic Anemia and MDS International Foundation. Aplastic anemia occurs more frequently in eastern Asian countries. It can affect people of any age, but it is most common in young adults. For most cases, the cause is unknown.”
*Source: National Marrow Donor Program. For mor information please visit their website >>
Aplastic Anemia
is a bone marrow failure disease
It occurs when the body slows or stops the production of healthy blood cells.
It affects bone marrow
Bone marrow is where blood is produced
Bone marrow makes up 3 types of blood cells that the body needs to survive
- Red blood cells
- White blood cells
- Platelets
Aplastic Anemia occurs when all 3 types of blood cells are low or depleted.
*Infographic credit: DKMS.ORG
Red Blood Cells
Red blood cells carry oxygen and are responsible for your basic metabolic system in your body, allowing you to breath, your heart to pump and your brain to function
White Blood Cells
White blood cells help fight infections. They are what fight germs, viruses and bacteria that your body is exposed to.
Platelets
Platelets are pieces of cells that are responsible for healing wounds & preventing bleeding by forming blood clots. If cut or injured, it is the platelets that make the blood sticky so it can clot and you don't bleed uncontrollably.
*Infographic credit: Novartis
Organizations helping blaze the trail for a cure with research & patient support
