Blood cancer affects your ability to fight infection, due to the abnormal production and function of your blood cells. There are three main types of blood cancer: leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. The cause of these cancers is not fully understood, but medical professionals have identified various factors that increase your chances of developing blood cancer. Here is a closer look at what those risks are.
Genetics
If you have relatives with blood cancer, you are more prone to the condition than people without a family history. However, this isn't the only genetic factor that plays a part. For example, people with Down syndrome, another genetic condition, are more likely to develop blood cancer than others.
Toxic Exposure
Exposure to radiation and toxic chemicals places you are a higher risk for blood cancer because it allows for harmful toxins to get into your bloodstream and spread to different parts of your body.
Immune System Problems
When your immune system is compromised due to a condition like HIV/AIDS, taking corticosteroids, or an organ transplant, you are more susceptible to blood cancer than most.
Age
People of all ages can develop a form of blood cancer, but recent studies suggest there is an increased risk among older age groups, as opposed to the general population.
Race
Studies show that Caucasians are more likely to get blood cancer (specifically leukemia) than people of other races.
Transplant
Some organ transplant recipients are at a higher risk for blood cancer. Medications that you take after a transplant suppress the immune system, decreasing your body’s ability to fight off disease.
Smoking
Smoking tobacco increases your chances for blood cancer because cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco smoke can get into your bloodstream and spread throughout your body.
