Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It is a complex disease with many causes, some of which are known and some of which remain unknown. There are several types of leukemia, including acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). While the exact cause of each type is not known, there are certain risk factors that may increase a person's risk of developing any type of leukemia.
Risk Factors for All Types of Leukemia
Some of the common risk factors for all types of leukemia include:
Age: Leukemia is most common in people over the age of 65.
Gender: Men are more likely to develop leukemia than women.
Genetic Factors: Certain genetic disorders can increase a person's risk of developing leukemia.
Exposure to Radiation: Exposure to radiation, either through medical treatments or environmental factors, can increase a person’s risk of developing leukemia.
Exposure to Chemicals: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene, can increase a person’s risk of developing leukemia.
Immune System Deficiencies: People with weakened immune systems due to diseases such as HIV or organ transplants may be at increased risk of developing leukemia.
Unknown Causes of Leukemia
In some cases, the cause of leukemia is unknown. This is known as “idiopathic” leukemia. While the exact cause is unknown, researchers believe that certain environmental factors, such as exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, may increase a person’s risk. Additionally, some research suggests that certain viral infections, such as the Epstein-Barr virus, may be linked to some types of leukemia.