Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL)

June 2005     View PDF
Reprinted from National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov, US

Risk factors associated with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

The incidence of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma has increased dramatically over the last couple of decades. This disease has gone from being relatively rare to being the fifth most common cancer in the United States. At this time, little is known about the reasons for this increase or about exactly what causes non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Doctors can seldom explain why one person gets non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and another does not. It is clear, however, that cancer is not caused by an injury, and is not contagious; no one can “catch” non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma from another person.

By studying patterns of cancer in the population, researchers have found certain risk factors that are more common in people who get non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma than in those who do not. However, most people with these risk factors do not get non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and many who do get this disease have none of the known risk factors.

The following are some of the risk factors associated with this disease:

• Age/Sex—The likelihood of getting non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma increases with age and is more common in men than in women.
• Weakened Immune System—Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is more common among people with inherited immune deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, or HIV/AIDS, and among people taking immunosuppressant drugs following organ transplants.
• Viruses—Human T-lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-1) and Epstein-Barr virus are two infectious agents that increase the chance of developing non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
• Environment—People who work extensively with or are otherwise exposed to certain chemicals, such as pesticides, solvents, or fertilizers, have a greater chance of developing non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

People who are concerned about non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma should talk with their doctor about the disease, the symptoms to watch for, and an appropriate schedule for checkups. The doctor’s advice will be based on the person’s age, medical history, and other factors.

Friends and relatives can be very supportive. Also, it helps many patients to discuss their concerns with others who have cancer. Cancer patients often get together in support groups, where they can share what they have learned about coping with cancer and the effects of treatment. It is important to keep in mind, however, that each person is different. Treatments and ways of dealing with cancer that work for one person may not be right for another—even if they both have the same kind of cancer. It is always a good idea to discuss the advice of friends and family members with the health care provider.

People living with cancer may worry about what the future holds. They may worry about holding their jobs, caring for their families, keeping up with daily activities, or personal relationships. Concerns about tests, treatments, hospital stays, and medical bills are also common. Doctors, nurses, and other members of the health care team can answer questions about treatment, working, or other activities. Meeting with a social worker, counselor, psychologist, or member of the clergy can be helpful to people who want to talk about their feelings or discuss their concerns. Often, a social worker can suggest groups that can help with rehabilitation, emotional support, financial aid, transportation, or home care.

Additional information about locating support services for people with cancer and their families is available through the Cancer Information Service and other sources described in the “National Cancer Institute Information Resources” section.