Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is primarily a disease of which age group?

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is primarily a disease of the elderly, typically affecting individuals over the age of 60. The incidence of CLL increases with age, making it relatively rare in younger populations, such as children and young adults, who are more likely to be diagnosed with other types of leukemia. This age distribution is significant because the biological behavior of CLL and its treatment approaches are often tailored to the older adult population. Additionally, older patients may present with a more advanced disease stage at diagnosis, which influences management and expectations regarding the disease course. Therefore, the categorization of CLL as primarily a disease of the elderly highlights the demographic trend of increasing frequency and distinct characteristics of the disease in this age group.