Risk Factors for Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Executive Summary

Risk factors influence the chances of developing cancer (childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia) among individuals. But individuals with no risk factors also develop this cancer. Although doctors do not know what causes most childhood leukemia, some evidence shows that certain genetic factors play a major role. The common risk factors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia cancers include the genetics of the child. Children born with the condition linked to genetic and immune systems problems, such as Down syndrome, ataxia-telangiectasia, and Bloom syndrome, may risk developing leukemia.

Risk Factors Associated with Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

A risk factor can be anything that can nurture the development of any cancer. But even if you have risk factors, contradicting the cancer is purely chance based. Some people with no risk factors can also develop cancer. Doctors are not sure of the exact causes of childhood leukemia yet. However, some evidence shows that certain genetic factors play a role in acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Genetics

Children born with the condition linked to genetic and immune systems problems, such as Down syndrome, ataxia-telangiectasia, and Bloom syndrome, may risk developing leukemia ^​1​. 

If a child with an identical twin develops acute lymphoblastic leukemia before age 6, the child is at an increased risk of developing leukemia. If an identical twin develops leukemia within the first few months of life, the other has a high probability of developing the same type of leukemia.

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