Skip to nav Skip to content

Spinal cancer risk factors are largely unknown. In general, lifestyle-related factors such as nutrition, exercise, body weight and tobacco use have been found to play roles in the development of many forms of cancer, including those that originate in or metastasize to the spine. Nevertheless, these factors can take many years to influence an individual’s cancer risk. As the effects of certain environmental, behavioral and genetic factors are being studied, more is being learned about spinal cancer and its prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Although there are no risk factors that are conclusively associated with spine cancer, some experts believe that the following factors may influence risk: 

  • Exposure to high levels of electromagnetic radiation, especially during childhood

  • Hereditary cancer syndromes, such as neurofibromatosis types 1 and 2, tuberous sclerosis, von Hippel-Lindau disease, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Gorlin syndrome, Turcot syndrome and Cowden syndrome

  • Weakened immune systems due to congenital conditions, treatments for other cancers or to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)

Any patient who is concerned about spinal cancer risk factors is welcome to consult with the renowned cancer experts of Moffitt Cancer Center’s Neuro-Oncology Program – we do not require referrals for either new or established patients. As a nationally recognized leader in the diagnosis and treatment of all forms of cancer, we offer our patients access to every aspect of highly individualized cancer care under the guidance of a multispecialty team in a single location.

To learn more about spinal cancer risk factors or to schedule an appointment for a consultation, call 1-888-663-3488 or complete our online form.

 

Helpful Links: