Causes and Symptoms
Many people get cancer from tobacco, physical activities, genetics, environment exposure, viral infections, unsafe sex, and sun exposure. Scientists are still uncertain about the true root causes of leukemia. Experts think it is that environmental, viral, and genetics play a role in one’s likely hood to developing leukemia.
Environment Exposure
Various types of chemicals has been linked with other cancers. Risks for acute leukemia are increased 20% among workers with long periods of exposure to benzene. Risks are also increased in workers exposed to other chemicals like solvents, herbicides, and pesticides. In addition, farming chemicals have been connected with an increased risk of chronic lymphocyte leukemia.
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Viral
Human T-cells virus I (HTLV-I) has been linked to almost all leukemia types. This sort of leukemia is common in the Caribbean and Asia, but it is uncommon in the United States and Europe. Larger rates of leukemias also have been reported in the workers who are exposed to animal viruses like butchers, slaughterhouse workers, and veterinary practitioners.
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Genetics
All cancers begin as a mutation in the genetic material. Leukemia starts when one or many white blood cells undergo DNA loss or damage. This error is copied and repeated on many other cells. Irregular leukemia cells remain in a juvenile form that never matures properly. The cells don’t die off like ordinary cells but multiply and gather within the body. Other genetic predispositions, like Fanconi’s Anemia and Bloom Syndrome can raise ones chances of developing leukemia. For example children with Down syndrome are 15% likely to develop leukemia than those children with out it.
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References
“Healthcommunities.com, Inc.” 3 April 2007. 3 April 2007
http://www.oncologychannel.com
“MedicineNet, Inc.” 3 April 2007. 3 April 2007 http://www.medicinenet.com/leukemia/
“Mccarthy.” 17 February 2007. 3 April 2007. http://www-formal.stanford.edu/
