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Germany: About leukemia

In Germany, leukaemia is relatively rare but well studied, and the country has a wide research and support network.

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, Germany’s outline with glowing cells.
Figure 1.Map of Germany — Germany: About leukemia

01Short answer

Cancer cases are recorded in regional cancer registries, and national statistics are published by the Robert Koch Institute’s Centre for Cancer Registry Data. The main types (ALL, AML, CML and CLL) all occur here. The Kompetenznetz Leukämie and the DGHO produce guidance for doctors, while the Krebsinformationsdienst and the DLH give patients free information.

02Simple explanation

Registry: regional and national.

Four main types: ALL, AML, CML, CLL.

Free information: Krebsinformationsdienst.

03Scientific explanation

Statistics: GLOBOCAN and the RKI publish national figures.

Research: many leukaemia study groups work in Germany.

04What happens in the body?

About the disease

Leukaemia is uncontrolled growth of blood cells in the bone marrow; the type guides treatment.

On a dark navy background, a marrow cross-section.
Figure 2.Bone marrow — Germany: About leukemia

Network

The Kompetenznetz Leukämie links centres and researchers.

On a dark navy background, linked lights.
Figure 3.Network — Germany: About leukemia

Where to start

The first step is usually a talk with your family doctor (Hausarzt).

05Getting started

Four steps.

Know the type — Ask the name of the diagnosis.1Know the typeAsk the name of the diagnosis.
Source — Krebsinformationsdienst.2SourceKrebsinformationsdienst.
Family doctor — First contact.3Family doctorFirst contact.
Self-help group — DLH.4Self-help groupDLH.
ClarityType and plan are known.
SupportYou are not alone.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
About the diseaseLeukaemia is uncontrolled growth of blood cells in the bone marrow; the type guides treatment.
NetworkThe Kompetenznetz Leukämie links centres and researchers.
Where to startThe first step is usually a talk with your family doctor (Hausarzt).

07Key terms

Hausarzt
Family doctor.
Krebsregister
Cancer registry.
Selbsthilfegruppe
Self-help group.
DLH
Patient organisation.

08Key points

  • Learn the type.
  • Choose a reliable source.
  • Start with your family doctor.
  • Write down questions.
  • Look at self-help groups.

09Frequently asked questions

Is leukaemia common?

It is relatively rare; figures are on krebsdaten.de.

Is the information in German?

Mostly yes; the Krebsinformationsdienst also answers by phone.

Whom can I trust?

Official and patient organisations, and your own team.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Is leukaemia common?

  2. Is the information in German?

  3. Whom can I trust?

My questions

12Sources

  1. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO). Global Cancer Observatory: Germany fact sheet
  2. Zentrum für Krebsregisterdaten (Robert Koch-Institut). Krebsdaten (in German)
  3. Krebsinformationsdienst (DKFZ). Official website (in German)
  4. Deutsche Leukämie- & Lymphom-Hilfe (DLH). Official website (in German)
  5. Kompetenznetz Leukämie. Official website (in German)
  6. EBMT / JACIE. JACIE accreditation
  7. GOV.UK. NHS entitlements: migrant health guide
  8. Macmillan Cancer Support. Official website
  9. NHS. Hospitals
  10. GOV.UK. Overseas NHS visitors: implementing the charging regulations
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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