It is impossible to predict if your teen will or will not develop leukemia in his lifetime. However, understanding the risk factors will help you guide your adolescent towards a healthier lifestyle and also keep an eye out for the signs and symptoms of leukemia.
The risk factors change depending on the type of leukemia your teen gets. But, some of the most common contributing factors include:
1. Age:
If you look at the statistics, people over the age of 65 are at a higher risk of developing leukemia. It’s why you, the parent, may overlook the signs of leukemia in your teenager.
2. Demographics:
Statistics reveal white (Caucasian) males are more susceptible to leukemia than other males. However, statistics aside, anyone can develop leukemia, including your adolescent.
3. Exposure To Radiation:
Getting exposed to radiation can increase your teen’s chances of developing leukemia. It explains why some teens get other types of cancer in their adulthood. Radiation therapy is a common form of treatment for teen leukemia.
4. Prior Cancer Treatment:
If your child received chemotherapy or radiation therapy previously for cancer, it could increase the likelihood of him developing leukemia.
5. Genetic Disorders:
Certain genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome and blood disorders, can increase the chances of your teenager developing leukemia.
6. Family History Of Leukemia:
Like all cancers, the chances of your adolescent getting leukemia increase if there is a family history of this cancer.
7. Environmental Factors:
Exposure to industrial solvents, pesticides, and tobacco smoke are other contributing factors for leukemia.
Based on this information, if you think your teenager is at risk for leukemia, you should consult your doctor immediately. And, you should note that leukemia often remains undetected in the initial stages, when the chances of recovery are greater. Request your doctor to take a blood sample of your teen. This is the only way to identify whether he has leukemia.