Asma Assad Diagnosed with Leukemia
Syria’s first lady, Asma Assad, aged 48, has been diagnosed with leukemia and will undergo a specialized treatment regimen that requires isolation, leading to her withdrawal from public activities.
Announcement and Diagnosis
The office of President Bashar Assad announced that Asma Assad was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia after a series of medical tests and examinations. She will follow a specialized treatment protocol with stringent infection prevention measures and temporarily withdraw from all direct engagements.
Background and Treatment History
Asma Assad, originally from central Syria and raised in the United Kingdom, had previously undergone treatment for breast cancer. In August 2019, she announced being free of the disease. She will now face leukemia treatment.
Controversy and Public Role
Before marrying President Bashar Assad in 2000, Asma worked as an investment banker. Despite her involvement in civil and charitable organizations, critics accuse her of using her Western background to divert attention from her husband’s actions during the Syrian conflict.
Symptoms of Leukemia
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak, even with adequate rest.
- Frequent infections: Recurrent or severe infections.
- Bruising or bleeding: Unexplained bruising, nosebleeds, or bleeding gums.
- Pale skin: A paler complexion possibly due to anemia.
- Joint or bone pain: Pain in bones or joints.
- Swollen lymph nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes in neck, armpits, or groin.
- Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without clear cause.
- Fever: Persistent or frequent fevers not caused by infections.
- Night sweats: Excessive sweating, especially at night.
It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis as these symptoms can be indicative of other medical conditions.