Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is a rare chronic disease, often diagnosed in people over the age of 60. However, it can occur at any age. The life expectancy for patients with ET is often near normal. 

Statistics on Life Expectancy for Essential Thrombocythemia

According to a study published in the American Journal of Hematology, the median survival for patients with ET is approximately 20 years. For patients younger than 60 years old, the median survival is 33 years.  It's important to note that these are median survival rates, meaning that half of patients live longer than these estimates. 

Factors Affecting Prognosis for Essential Thrombocythemia

• Age at diagnosis: People older than 60 at the time of diagnosis typically have a shorter survival time.
• Overall health: Patients with other health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, may have a shorter life expectancy.
• Response to treatment: Patients who respond well to treatment may have a longer life expectancy.
• Genetic mutations: Certain genetic mutations, such as the JAK2 mutation, can affect prognosis.
• Thrombotic events: Patients who have had blood clots have a higher risk of complications and a shorter life expectancy.
• Tobacco use: Tobacco use is associated with a shorter life expectancy.

It's important to note that survival statistics are general trends and a patient's individual prognosis can vary greatly. Each patient's case is unique and should be discussed with their healthcare provider. Having an ET specialist on your team provides you with the best way of truly understanding your prognosis. Visit HealthTree's ET Specialist Directory to find an ET expert near you. You can also join HealthTree's social media platform, HealthTree Connect to meet other ET patients and learn what they've done personally to live longer with ET. 

Want to Learn More About Essential Thrombocythemia?

Keep reading HealthTree for Essential Thrombocythemia's 101 pages!

• What Is Essential Thrombocythemia?
• How Is Essential Thrombocythemia Diagnosed?
• What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Essential Thrombocythemia?
• How Is Essential Thrombocythemia Staged And Classified?
• What Are Treatments For Essential Thrombocythemia?