Cancer Research UK main site

Reducing level of platelets

Redcollector
Offline

Hi, in Nov 2023 my platelet count was 154which is an ove the lowest level in the acceptable range. ( the low level is 150 )

I had an FBC in Aug 2024 when that level had dropped to 137 a further FBC in Feb 2025 it was 136 and this week 129, all well below the lowest recommended range.

i am concerned this might be an early sign of leukemia my fear comes from the fact my father died from leukemia and I have had a lot of CT scans so exposure to radiation.

All my other FBC measurements are normal.

Am I worrying unnecessarily ? 

thanks 

  • Offline

    Hi Red

    You are probably worrying unnecessarily and worry can make you more ill than disease.. What does you GP diagnose as the cause of low platelet count? Medicine, virus, infection etc. CT scans radìation can increase the risk of cancer as can flying in a plane. But the radiography dept will make sure you do not exceed the maximum exposure per year. I believe the lifetime risk of a full body CT scan is one extra cancer per 1000 people. So pretty low. Talk about your concerns re leukemia with GP and get on with enjoying your life.

    Ed

  • Hello, redcollector, and thank you for posting.

    I am sorry to learn that you lost your dad to leukaemia and that you are having concerns about your health. This must be very difficult.

    As Ed has mentioned, there can be many causes for low platelets, not necessarily cancer, and if leukaemia was the cause, you would also expect other abnormal blood results, not just platelets, so it is good that your other blood results are normal.

    If you are concerned, do have a chat with your GP to see if they can give you any explanation as to what the cause might be.

    As Ed has also mentioned, although CT scans can increase the risk of cancer, the amount of radiation used is low, and the risk is low. If this is something you are worried about, it is worth mentioning to your GP as they will know your situation and might be able to give you some reassurance.

    I hope this reply helps a little and you can get some answers soon.

    Take care,

    Jemma

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.