Possible Causes of Leukemia-University of Maryland Medical Center

/Home/Leukemia Prevention and Causes

What Causes It?

Most causes of leukemia are not known. However, the disease has been linked to exposure to large amounts of high-energy radiation (from nuclear bombs), occupational exposure to the chemical benzene, viral infections, and chemicals from cigarettes.

Who's Most At Risk?

Leukemia is linked to the following risk factors:

* Increasing age
* Genetic diseases, such as Fanconi's anemia or Down syndrome
* Acquired diseases, such as Hodgkin's disease
* First-degree relative with leukemia
* Excessive exposure to ionizing radiation
* Chemical exposure (benzene)
* Certain drugs
* Chromosomal abnormalities
* Cigarette smoking