What are the risk factors for leukemia?
-
Although the risk factors for, and causes of, leukemia are largely unknown, scientists have identified some possible risk factors to be aware of. These include the following:
- Exposure to high levels of radiation: Exposure to high-energy radiation (e.g., atomic bomb explosions) and intense exposure to low-energy radiation from electromagnetic fields (e.g., power lines).
- Previous cancer treatment: Certain types of chemotherapy and radiation therapy for other cancers are considered leukemia risk factors.
- Genetic diseases: Certain genetic abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, may play a role in the development of leukemia.
- Chemical exposure: Long-term exposure to certain pesticides or industrial chemicals like benzene is considered to be a risk for leukemia.
- Gender: Men are more likely to develop chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) than women.
- Age: The risk of most leukemias, with the exception of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), typically increases with age.
- Smoking: Although smoking may not be a direct cause of leukemia, smoking cigarettes does increase the risk of developing AML.
- Family history: Most leukemias have no familial link. However, first degree relatives of CLL patients, or having an identical twin who has or had AML or ALL, may put you at an increased risk for developing the disease.
Although the risk factors for, and causes of, leukemia are largely unknown, scientists have identified some possible risk factors to be aware of. These include the following: Exposure to high levels of radiation: Exposure to high-energy radiation... More -
Dr. Patrick Maguire answered:Most patients who have a leukemia diagnosis don't have a known predominant risk factor in their medical history. Exposure to certain types of chemotherapy agents, the classic type being alkylating agents, can increase the risk of developing leukemia as early as two to five years after treatment. While many of these drugs are no longer used, drugs such as etoposide and cyclophosphamide (which are routinely used in the treatment of lung and breast cancers, respectively) still carry a risk of causing leukemia, albeit very small in absolute terms. Radiation, particularly if received at a young age, may significantly increase the risk of developing leukemia years later as well. There are certain chemicals which are known to be carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) that also dramatically increase the risk. In addition to the host of other cancers that it causes, smoking also increases the risk of leukemia. Patients with severe blood disorders and certain chromosomal or genetic abnormalities, notably Down syndrome, also have an increased risk.Most patients who have a leukemia diagnosis don't have a known predominant risk factor in their medical history. Exposure to certain types of chemotherapy agents, the classic type being alkylating agents, can increase the risk of developing... More
