First, your doctor will check for physical signs of leukaemia – like swollen glands – and take a blood test.
If the test shows abnormal levels of white blood cells or low numbers of normal blood cells, you’ll be referred to a specialist.
A sample of bone marrow is then usually taken from the back of your pelvis using a needle, so it can be looked at carefully under a microscope to confirm if you have leukaemia and, if you do, which type.
You can find out more in our