The burden of acute myeloid leukemia: an integrated review of clinical, economic, and patient-centered evidence

INTRODUCTION: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematologic cancer that accounts for approximately one third of all newly diagnosed leukemias annually in the United States (US), and is associated with high mortality and substantial clinical, economic and patient burden. AREAS COVERED: Prior reviews have explored AML disease burden from isolated epidemiological, treatment, or cost perspectives. In this narrative review, we integrate the published evidence identified through targeted searches of PubMed and Google Scholar conducted between June 2025 and July 2026. Literature published between 2006 and 2026 addressing the epidemiologic, clinical, economic and humanistic burden of AML was reviewed to characterize unmet needs across the continuum of care, from diagnosis and treatment selection to patient outcomes including remission, relapse, and death. EXPERT OPINION: Significant unmet needs persist across all burden dimensions, particularly for older patients and those ineligible for intensive chemotherapy. Therefore, expanded access to targeted therapies, oral regimens, and supportive care models has the potential to enhance health-related quality of life and reduce 'time toxicity/burden' for patients. The multifaceted aspects of AML burden necessitate a treatment approach that balances safety and efficacy with patient preference and patient-centered value, to optimize outcomes for patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems.