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Risk Factors of Lymphoma B Cell

B-cell lymphoma is a specific kind of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The cancer affects cells that fight infection and help protect the immune system. Risk factors are not always present in people diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma, and according to the Mayo Clinic, many of those who have risk factors never develop the cancer. There are, however, some broad demographics and specific medical conditions and treatments that can influence the presence of B-cell lymphoma.

  1. The Facts

    • Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a cancer originating in the lymphatic system. Between 80 and 90 percent of all non-Hodgkin's lymphomas start in B-cells, according to the Lymphoma Information Network.

      The lymphatic system is made up of lymph nodes and other organs that fight disease throughout the body and help provide a strong immune system. B-cells are white blood cells that produce antibodies and fight infections. B-cell lymphoma is present after those cells have mutated and become cancerous. B-cells then proliferate the cancer by cloning themselves.

    Risk Factors for B-Cell Lymphoma

    • According to the California Cancer Registry (CCR), the following factors can influence whether a person is at risk for B-cell lymphoma: age (B-cell lymphoma occurs most often in people 60 years or older), immune system deficits caused by genetic disorders (usually affecting young adults and children), immune system deficits caused by HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), autoimmune diseases, or chronic infections, and certain treatment for other cancers (specifically, radiation therapy can increase the risk later in life).

    Risk Factors for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

    • Although there are no obvious risk factors for most people with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, the Mayo Clinic notes that people who have had organ transplants or certain bacterial infections or who have been exposed to certain pesticides and insecticides could be more susceptible to the cancer.

    Risk Demographics

    • Aside from increased presence in people 60 years or older, the CCR has also found that males of all ethnicities are diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma more often than females. Cases are also more prevalent in white and Hispanic people.

    Support and Expanded Research

    • If you have B-cell lymphoma, or if you would like to expand your research to include stages and characteristics of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, please follow the links listed under "Resources."

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