Chronic lymphocytic leukemia(CLL) starts in the bone marrows white blood cells, specifically thelymphocytes.
While the exact cause of CLL isnt known, experts do know that genes play a role.
This article will discuss the causes and risk factors of chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
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When something goes wrong in the production of these white blood cells, cancer can occur.
In the case of CLL, genetic mutations cause the out-of-control production of lymphocytes.
These can’t fight off infection like normal white blood cells.
What Are the Symptoms of CLL?
Because CLL is a chronic leukemia, some people may notnotice symptomsright away.
Or symptoms may be vague and generalized.
A risk factor is just that: something that may increase your risk.
What Is Agent Orange?
This herbicide contains a dangerous substance calleddioxin.
CLL is typically brought on by noninheritable genetic mutations.
These mutations are not present at conception but develop in cells afterward.
Often, people with CLL have a mutation in their chromosomestypically a deletion in chromosome 13.
Other chromosomes that may be affected include chromosomes 11 and 17.
Experts aren’t sure why this happens, though.
What Is a Lifestyle Risk Factor?
A lifestyle risk factor is a risk factor that you have control over.
Things like smoking or being active are considered lifestyle risk factors.
Lifestyle factors can greatly influence your chance of developing certain cancers.
These changes cause healthy bone marrow cells to grow out of control.
The reason for these mutations is unknown.
However, experts have identified some risk factors, including chemical exposure, age, and sex.
Knowing the exact cause of specific cancers would likely help researchers improve existingtreatment options.
Unfortunately, experts still havent identified a precise cause of CLL.
American Society of Hematology.Blood cancers.
American Cancer Society.Signs and symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
American Cancer Society.What are the risk factors for chronic lymphocytic leukemia?
Aspen Institute.What is agent orange?
American Cancer Society.Do we know what causes chronic lymphocytic leukemia?
Environmental Protection Agency.Learn about dioxin.
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.Chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
