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What Causes Hodgkin's Disease?

Doctors and researchers do not currently know what precisely causes Hodgkin's Disease. However, there are several common risk factors that come into play and, although not all risk factors can be controlled, some can. There are several different types of lymphoma, of which Hodgkin's disease is considered a part. Lymphoma is a cancer that affects the lymph system, which contributes to immune system functioning and the circulatory systems of the body.

  1. Mononucleosis and Epstein Barre Syndrome

    • According to the American Cancer Society both mononucleosis and Epistein Barre Syndrome are illnesses that place a person at greater risk for developing Hodgkin's disease. Epstein Barr is another name for mononucleosis, otherwise known as "mono." This is an illness that attacks the immune system and often attacks adolescents and young adults. While having these illnesses does not place a great and high risk for developing the cancer, there is a commonality among individuals who later develop Hodgkin's.

    Abnormal B Cells

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, one of the significant risk factors for developing Hodgkin's disease is having abnormal B cells. B cells are a type of lymph cell that attacks invaders such as foreign materials or bacteria that invade the body. Lymph cells are part of the immune system, which helps protect the body from illness. Deformed or abnormal immune system cells make the body more vulnerable to becoming ill because they do not go through the normal life cycle of cells; instead they live and become potentially malignant.

    Weakened Immune System

    • One of the risk factors to developing Hodgkin's disease is having a compromised or weakened immune system, according to the Mayo Clinic. An immune system can be weakened by a wide number of factors. For example, autoimmune illnesses, such as diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and many others are illnesses that all prevent normal functioning of the immune system. Other factors that can cause a weakened immune system include HIV/AIDS and being on immunosuppressant medications.

    Family History

    • Unfortunately, one of the factors we have little control over is family history of Hodgkin's disease. The Mayo Clinic states that although not clearly understood, it may be that similar environmental factors while growing up or in the current environment may trigger a person getting Hodgkin's disease. It is not uncommon for families to experience a cluster of illnesses that are similar in nature, such as lymphomas or other types of cancer.

    Geography

    • Another factor over which we may have little control is our geographical location. In terms of ethnic background and geography, the Mayo Clinic indicates that Hodgkin's disease is more common in the United States, Europe and Canada. However, it is an illness that is much less common in Asian countries or in South America. As a result, individuals who are ethnically from these regions may be less likely to develop Hodgkin's disease.

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