About non-Hodgkin lymphoma
What should people know about non-Hodgkin lymphoma?
Lymphoma is the name for cancers that develop in the lymphatic system, a part of the body's immune system. The lymphatic system helps the body fight infection and diseases. It is made up of thin tubes, similar to blood vessels, that branch into tissue throughout the body. These tubes carry a watery, colorless fluid, called lymph, which contains infection fighting cells called lymphocytes. Along the network of tubes are small, oval-shaped organs called lymph nodes. Groups of lymph nodes are found in the armpits, neck, chest, abdomen and groin.
Other parts of the lymphatic system are the thymus, spleen, tonsils and bone marrow. Lymphatic tissue is also found in other body parts including the stomach, skin and intestines.
There are several different types of lymphoma. Lymphomas are often divided into two groups: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The information in this section is about non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Each year in New York State almost 2,300 men and 2,000 women are diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Approximately 670 men and 620 women die from this disease each year in New York State. Nationally, non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the sixth most common site of new cancer diagnoses among men and fifth among women.
Who gets non-Hodgkin lymphoma?
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma occurs more frequently among men than among women. It also occurs more frequently among whites than among Blacks. Although children can get non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the risk of getting lymphoma increases with age. Approximately 70% of people diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma are age 55 and over.
What causes non-Hodgkin lymphoma?
At this time, we do not know exactly what causes non-Hodgkin lymphoma. People with depressed immune systems, such as those who have had organ transplants or individuals with HIV/AIDS, have an increased risk of getting non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Studies among farmers and other occupations also indicate that exposure to herbicides, pesticides and certain other chemicals may be associated with getting non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Other risk factors that are being investigated include Helicobacter pylori and Hepatitis C infections and obesity.
What can I do to reduce my chances of getting non-Hodgkin lymphoma?
Most people who develop Non-Hodgkin lymphoma do not have any risk factors. Treating the immune suppression caused by AIDS will help people who are infected with HIV to avoid Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Prevention of the spread of HIV/AIDS is also important. Treatment for Heliobacter pylori and Hepatitis C infections may also prevent some cases of cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight is important for the prevention of many types of cancer and chronic diseases.
