Skin Cancer

Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Risk Factors

Hodgkin's Lymphoma Risk Factors

We don’t find a definitive reason why each patient developed the cancer, these are the known factors which make them more susceptible for developing Hodgkin’s Lymphoma as below.

  • Gender: Men have a slightly greater chance of developing the disease than women.

  • Age: Adults in their 20s and early 30s and those over age 55 are at an increased risk for developing Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV): Known for causing “infectious mononucleosis” in young adults, EBV may be associated with certain cancers, including lymphomas.
  • Compromised immune system: Individuals having a compromised immune system from HIV/AIDS, or from immunosuppressants to prevent organ transplant rejection, may increase the risk for developing Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • Family history: Having a parent or sibling with the disease may increase the risk. However, the American Cancer Society reports that only 5 percent of cases are found to have a family link.
  • Geography: Hodgkin lymphoma is most common in North America and northern Europe.
  • Socioeconomic status: Hodgkin lymphoma is more common in individuals with a higher socioeconomic background.