Causes and Risk Factors for Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a blood cancer that develops when certain infection-fighting white blood cells (lymphocytes) undergo harmful genetic changes that cause them to grow uncontrollably. The two main types are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Both originate in the lymphatic system but differ in their biological characteristics and growth patterns. Hodgkin lymphoma is defined by the presence of large, abnormal cells known as Reed-Sternberg cells, which are absent in non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

While the exact cause of lymphoma is often unknown, the risk may be influenced by factors such as age, immune system dysfunction, certain infections and family history. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 89,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with lymphoma each year. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the more common form, accounting for approximately 90% of cases.

What causes lymphoma?

Lymphoma begins when lymphocytes acquire genetic mutations that interfere with their normal life cycle. Instead of growing, functioning and dying as they should, these abnormal cells continue multiplying and may accumulate in the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow or other tissues throughout the body.

Researchers do not know exactly why lymphoma develops in some people and not others. However, several biological processes and underlying conditions have been linked to the genetic changes that contribute to lymphoma formation.

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Factors that may contribute to lymphoma development include:

• Genetic mutations within lymphocytes – Changes in the DNA of lymphocytes can disrupt normal cell growth and survival. Over time, the abnormal cells may multiply and form lymphoma.
• Immune system dysfunction – A weakened or dysregulated immune system may impair the body’s ability to identify and eliminate abnormal cells before they become cancerous.
• Chronic infections – Certain viral and bacterial infections can stimulate prolonged immune system activity, which may increase the likelihood of genetic damage within lymphocytes.
• Inherited genetic susceptibility – Although most lymphomas are not inherited, certain genetic traits may influence an individual’s susceptibility to the condition.

What are the risk factors for lymphoma?

Many people diagnosed with lymphoma have no known risk factors. However, researchers have identified several characteristics, medical conditions and exposures that may increase the likelihood of developing Hodgkin lymphoma or non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Risk factors for lymphoma include:

• Older age – The risk of many types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma increases with age, while Hodgkin lymphoma is often diagnosed in young adults and later in life.
• Male sex – Certain lymphoma subtypes occur more frequently in men than in women.
• Weakened immune system – Individuals who have undergone organ transplantation, take immunosuppressive medications or have an immune-related disorder may face a higher risk of lymphoma.
• Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection – EBV, the virus that causes mononucleosis, is linked to certain forms of both Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection – HIV can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of several lymphoma subtypes.
• Autoimmune disorders – Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and Sjögren's syndrome are associated with an elevated risk of lymphoma.
• Family history of lymphoma – Having one or more close relatives with lymphoma may slightly increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Exposure to certain chemicals – Some studies suggest a possible correlation between lymphoma and exposure to some pesticides, herbicides and industrial chemicals, although research in this area is ongoing.

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Which risk factors for lymphoma are modifiable (factors you can control)?

Not all lymphoma risk factors can be controlled. However, some are linked to certain infections, environmental exposures or immune system health, which may be managed or reduced.

Modifiable risk factors for lymphoma include:

• HIV infection management – An early diagnosis and effective treatment of human immunodeficiency virus can help strengthen immune function and reduce the risk of certain lymphoma types.
• Exposure to potentially harmful chemicals – Following workplace safety guidelines and minimizing unnecessary exposure to pesticides, solvents and industrial chemicals may help reduce the risk.
• Prevention and treatment of chronic infections – Appropriate medical care for infections associated with lymphoma may help reduce long-term immune system stress and inflammation.
• Avoiding behaviors that increase infection risk – Taking steps to reduce the risk of HIV and other infectious diseases can help protect long-term immune function.
• Immune-related condition management – Appropriate treatment of immune system disorders may help reduce chronic immune stimulation and support overall immune health.

Which risk factors for lymphoma are nonmodifiable (factors you cannot change)?

Some lymphoma risk factors are related to inherited characteristics or medical history and cannot be changed. However, understanding these factors may help identify individuals who could benefit from increased awareness or closer medical monitoring.

Nonmodifiable risk factors for lymphoma include:

• Older age – Different lymphoma subtypes are associated with different age groups, but overall risk increases with age for many forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
• Male sex – Men are diagnosed with several lymphoma subtypes more often than women.
• Family history of lymphoma – Having a parent, sibling or child with lymphoma may modestly increase the risk.
• Inherited genetic factors – Certain genetic traits may influence how the immune system functions and responds to abnormal cells.
• History of autoimmune disease – Certain autoimmune disorders are associated with an increased risk of lymphoma. Although symptoms can often be managed, the underlying condition itself cannot always be eliminated.

Can lymphoma be prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent lymphoma, and many cases occur in people who have no identifiable risk factors. However, protecting immune health and reducing exposure to known risk factors may help lower the likelihood of developing certain lymphoma subtypes.

Strategies that may help reduce lymphoma risk include:

• Practice infection prevention – Taking steps to reduce the risk of HIV and other chronic infections may help protect immune system function.
• Seek appropriate treatment for immune-related conditions – Proper management of autoimmune diseases and immune disorders may help support immune health and reduce chronic inflammation.
• Limit exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals – Using protective equipment and following workplace safety recommendations may reduce exposure to substances linked to lymphoma risk.
• Maintain regular medical care – Routine health care visits can help identify and manage conditions that may affect immune health.
• Support overall wellness – Healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition and adequate sleep, can support immune system function and overall health.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about lymphoma causes and risk factors

Many people wonder why lymphoma develops and whether it can be prevented. The following question addresses one of the most common concerns about lymphoma risk.

• How do you get lymphoma?

Find the help you need for lymphoma at Moffitt Cancer Center

A lymphoma diagnosis often raises questions about why the condition developed and what factors may have contributed to it. At Moffitt, the multispecialty team in our Malignant Hematology Program provides comprehensive evaluations, advanced diagnostic testing and individualized treatment plans for patients with Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other blood cancers.

If you would like to learn more about lymphoma, you can request an appointment with a specialist in the Malignant Hematology Program at Moffitt by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.