A risk factor can be anything that influences the development of any cancer. But having a risk factor, or many does not give certainty of having particular cancer. Some people with no risk factors can also develop cancer.
In general, leukemia can be due to a genetic mutation. These genetic mutations can occur as a generational genetic mutation within the family. Or, environmental factors can cause these changes, like smoking or exposure to certain chemicals or radiation. However, in some cases, the cause of leukemia is not known.
The following factors may increase the risk of a person developing PLL or HCL –
- Age – HCL occurs most often in people between ages 40 and 70.
- Gender- Men are five times more likely to develop HCL than women.
- Exposure to Chemicals– There is a high chance of risk when there is exposure to chemicals and radiation.
However, the obvious risk factors are still under research.
