Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Risk Factors

The causes leading to the development of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are not well known; however factors are suspected.

• AIDS / HIV – those with AIDS / HIV are at high risk of having lymphoma. In addition, people who have weakened immune system due to certain conditions such as malnutrition and Immunosuppression are at risk.
• Age – non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is more common among people in their 60s or older.
• Genetic  – genetic factors may predispose you to have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma; the risk is even higher if you live in a carcinogenic environment.
• Infection  – certain viral and bacterial infections are suspected in the development of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma:

1. a)helicobacter pylori
2. b)hepatitis C virus
3. c)Epstein-Barr virus
4. d)HTLV-1 (Human T lymphoma / leukemia virus)
5. e)herpes virus – HHV 6 and HHV 8.

Some immunosuppressive diseases: 

• lupus
• sarcoidosis
• scleroderma
• Celiac Disease
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• rheumatoid arthritis
• Sjogren’s Syndrome. 

          Causes                                                              Symptoms