Risk Factors
A risk factor is a characteristic, behavior, or condition that raises the possibility of developing a disease. Here are some risk factors for developing Hodgkin lymphoma:
Age
Hodgkin lymphoma most commonly occurs in young adults between the ages of 15 and 30 and older adults over the age of 55.
Gender
Men are at higher risk for Hodgkin lymphoma than women.
Family History
Close relatives, especially brothers and sisters, of a person with Hodgkin lymphoma are at an increased risk for developing the disease, although this risk is small, and the exact increase in risk has never been accurately calculated.
Viruses
Infection with certain viruses such as the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) may increase one's risk for developing Hodgkin lymphoma.
