Hodgkin's lymphoma risk factors

Overview
Clinical data has suggested that the development of Hodgkin's lymphoma is related to several factors.


 * Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection/Mononucleosis: The role of EBV in the development of Hodgkin lymphoma is not very clear. As we know, mononucleosis is an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Clinical data show that mononuclesis has a close relationship with Hodgkin's lymphoma.


 * Family history: The reason why family history may increase risk of developing Hodgkin's lymphoma is not clear. Some researchers proclaimed they had found certain changes in the genes responsible for immunity in patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma.


 * Socioeconomic status: Clinical survey shows patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma posses higher socioeconomic background. The reason is not clear.


 * Geography: Epidemiological data demonstrates that Hodgkin's lymphoma is most common in western countries such as the United States, Canada and northern Europe, and is least common in Asian countries.


 * Age: Epidemiological survey suggests that Hodgkin's lymphoma is most common in early adulthood (ages 15 to 40, especially in a person's 20s) and in late adulthood (after age 55).


 * Gender: Hodgkin's lymphoma occurs slightly more often in men than in women.