Q. What causes blood cancer?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Blood cancer, or leukemia, is a type of cancer that originates in the blood or bone marrow. In most cases, it is caused by errors in the development or function of certain types of white blood cells (the body's primary defense against infection and disease). These errors can lead to uncontrolled cell reproduction that results in excessive build-up of abnormal cells.
The exact cause of these errors is unknown in most cases; however, researchers have identified a few possible causes linked to an increased risk for developing certain types of leukemia. For example:
• Exposure to substances such as radiation, benzene (an industrial solvent), and chemotherapy drugs
• Inherited genetic syndromes like Down syndrome
• Exposure to known carcinogens like tobacco smoke
• Being over the age 65 at the time diagnosis was made
• A family history of blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.
In addition to these potential causes, factors such as an unhealthy diet low in antioxidants and high amounts obesity may also contribute to a person's risk for developing this type of cancer. It's important to remember that even though there are numerous potential triggers for acquiring this illness, any individual diagnosed with it should not be blamed solely on his/her lifestyle choices or personal characteristics. Rather they should focus on their recovery - which can be easier said than done - by engaging actively with their physicians and healthcare teams who are best able to provide personalized care tailored specifically towards managing symptoms associated with their condition.