Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that originates in the lymphatic system. The tumors caused by this type of blood cancer generally develop in a type of white blood cell, medically known as lymphocytes.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is more common than Hodgkin lymphoma, which usually affects more males than females. In most cases, doctors fail to determine the actual cause of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, a recent study has revealed a few factors that may cause an increase in the risk. Some of these risk factors are:

1. Race and family history
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is usually more common in developed countries. It is common among Caucasians, as they are known to be affected by non-Hodgkin lymphoma more than Asian-Americans or African-Americans.

Some researchers also consider family history to be one of the risk factors of this type of blood cancer. Thus, if any of your family members have had non-Hodgkin lymphoma, you are more likely to get affected by this disease.

2. Age
Age is considered to be one of the most common causes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as this disease generally affects people who are 60 years or older. However, some types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma are also known to affect young adults.

3. Exposure to radiation or certain chemicals
The risk of getting affected by NHL may also increase if you are undergoing radiation therapy to treat some other types of cancer. Moreover, the risk increases if you are being treated with both chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Some health specialists consider certain insecticides, herbicides, and chemicals, such as benzene, to be causes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. One recent study also found a link between NHL and a few medications such as TNF inhibitors and methotrexate that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Infections caused by viruses and bacteria
Some viruses and bacteria can also turn healthy lymphocytes into cancer cells by affecting their DNA. Some of these viruses are:

• HLTV-1

Commonly found in certain regions, like the Caribbean and Japan, HLTV-1 can lead to several diseases, including TSP (tropical spastic paraparesis); these can cause NHL.

• EBV

The infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus can increase the risk of a certain type of NHL (Burkitt’s lymphoma).

5. Autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases cause the immune system to attack healthy tissues and organs of your body. This condition sometimes leads to an overactive immune system. This also causes your body to produce lymphocytes by a large amount. Most doctors consider this abnormality to be one of the causes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

These are some of the factors that can increase the risk of NHL. Thus, to prevent this potentially life-threatening disease, learn of the risk factors to take preventive measures, so that you can lead a healthy life.