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 childhood lymphoma:
Age
Hodgkin lymphoma is most common in young adults between the ages of 16 and 35 and older adults over the age of 55. However, it may occur at any age during childhood. In general, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma rarely occurs in children, excluding Burkitt Lymphoma. It is more common in older children and teenagers than in younger children, but may also occur at any age during childhood.
Race
White children are at a higher risk for developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma than African-American and Asian-American children.
Gender
Boys are at greater risk than girls for developing both Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Family History
Children with relatives who have had Hodgkin lymphoma have an increased risk for the disease. However, this risk is small, and the exact increase in risk has never been accurately calculated.
Viruses
Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Helicobacter pylori bacteria, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) may increase a child's risk for developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Weakened Immune System
Having a weakened immune system due to the HIV virus, an organ transplant, or a congenital immune deficiency syndrome increases a child's risk for developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
