Risk factors for Hodgkin lymphoma
Some things can affect your risk, or chance, of developing cancer. Certain behaviours, substances or conditions can increase or decrease the risk. Most cancers are the result of many risk factors. But sometimes cancer develops in people who don’t have any risks.
Most cases of Hodgkin lymphoma are diagnosed in adults between 20 and 40 years of age, though there is an increase in diagnosis in adults older than 50. It affects men slightly more often than women.
The following can increase your risk for Hodgkin lymphoma:
Epstein-Barr virus infection
Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a risk factor for Hodgkin lymphoma. EBV is a type of herpes virus that causes infectious mononucleosis (also called mono, or the kissing disease). Many people are infected with EBV, but only some of them develop a long-term infection.
Find out more about the Epstein-Barr virus.
Family history
HIV infection
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the virus that causes AIDS. HIV weakens the body’s immune system and may leave people vulnerable to certain types of cancer, including Hodgkin lymphoma.
Find out more about the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Possible risk factors
The following have been linked with an increased risk of Hodgkin lymphoma, but more research is needed to know for sure that they are risk factors:
- solid organ transplantation
- infectious mononucleosis
- autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
- smoking tobacco
-
socioeconomic status
No link to Hodgkin lymphoma
Significant research shows no link between Hodgkin lymphoma and radiation exposure.
Understanding your cancer risk
To make the decisions that are right for you, ask your doctor questions about risks. Learn how cancer can be prevented and what you can do to reduce your risk.
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