Lymphoma

Researchers do not have clear answers as to what causes lymphoma, but they have identified factors that can increase a person’s risk. Understanding those factors can help you and your physician make informed decisions about monitoring and care. 

Lymphoma can happen to anyone, regardless of family history. Knowing your risk is the first step toward being proactive about your health. 

Who Is at Higher Risk for Lymphoma 

Certain groups of people have a statistically higher risk of developing lymphoma. If you are at higher risk, it does not mean certainty of developing lymphoma. It simply means awareness and monitoring are more important.  

Age and lymphoma risk 

Age is a factor for non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which is more common in older adults. Hodgkin lymphoma, by contrast, often affects younger people. Neither type is limited to a single age group. 

Health history and immune function 

A weakened immune system is one of the most consistent risk factors across lymphoma types. This can result from:

 

• A serious illness like HIV/AIDS that affects immune function 
• Organ transplant medications that suppress the immune system 
• Living with an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus 
• Certain infections, including helicobacter pylori bacteria or the Epstein-Barr virus 

Environmental exposures 

Long-term exposure to certain chemicals, including pesticides and herbicides, has been associated with an increased risk of some lymphoma types. If you work in agriculture or with chemical agents, talk to your physician about your risk. 

What You Can Do with This Information 

Knowing your risk profile is a reason to be proactive. 

If you have several of the risk factors listed above, talk to your doctor. Together you can decide whether additional monitoring, earlier or more frequent screenings, or a conversation with a specialist makes sense for you. 

If your symptoms match what is commonly experienced by patients with lymphoma and have not been explained by a doctor, do not wait. Catching lymphoma early, when it is most treatable, begins by paying attention to the signs. 

When to Talk to a Specialist 

You do not need a diagnosis to talk to a specialist. If you are concerned about your risk or your symptoms, the team at Siteman Cancer Center is here to help you understand what you are dealing with and what your options are. 

Talk to a care coordinator to get started and they will help you figure out the right next step.