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Causes
The cause of AML is unknown. However, smoking after age 60 doubles the risk of this condition.
Risk Factors
The following factors increase your chance of developing AML:
- Sex: male
- Smoking, especially after age 60
- Previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatment
- Previous treatment for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) , Hodgkin’s disease , non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma , and certain other cancers
- Exposure to atomic bomb radiation or nuclear reactor accident
- Exposure to the chemical benzene
- History of a blood disorder, such as myelodysplastic syndrome (precancerous changes in the white cells and precursor cells of the bone marrow)
The following risk factors are specific to childhood AML:
- Having a brother or sister with leukemia
- Race: Hispanic
- Exposure to cigarette smoke or alcohol before birth
- History of myelodysplastic syndrome or aplastic anemia
- Previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatment
- Exposure to ionizing radiation
- Exposure to chemicals such as benzene
- Certain genetic disorders, such as Down’s syndrome
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.