A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.
It is possible to develop
with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing Hodgkins disease. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk.
Risk factors for Hodgkins disease include:
Immunodeficiency or autoimmune disorders, including the presence of HIV, increase your risk of Hodgkins disease.
Hodgkins disease seems to occur more often in people who have been infected with the Epstein-Barr virus or
Hodgkins disease seems to occur more often in people between the ages of 15-40 and over age 55. Peaks occur at age 20 and age 70.
Slightly more males than females are diagnosed each year.
Having a close relative with Hodgkins lymphoma increases your chances of developing the disease. If your parent, child, or sibling has Hodgkins disease, your risk is increased threefold. If a younger brother or sister has Hodgkins disease, your risk is increased sevenfold.
People of European descent are more likely to develop Hodgkins disease than people of other ethnic groups.
Last reviewed March 2015 by Mohei Abouzied, MD, FACP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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