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Risk factors
By Mayo Clinic staffCertain factors may increase your risk of developing hairy cell leukemia. Not all research studies agree on what factors increase your risk of the disease. Some research indicates that your risk of hairy cell leukemia increases based on your:
- Family history of blood cancers. Hairy cell leukemia is sometimes found in families with a history of this and other blood cancers.
- Ashkenazi Jewish heritage. Ashkenazi Jewish men may have a higher risk of hairy cell leukemia.
- Personal history of cancer. If you've had another type of cancer, you're more likely to develop hairy cell leukemia.
- Exposure to radiation. People who work around X-ray machines and other medical equipment that gives off ionizing radiation may have a higher risk of developing hairy cell leukemia, though some studies haven't found this to be the case.
- Exposure to chemicals. Chemicals, such as those used in agricultural and petroleum products, could play a role in hairy cell leukemia development. Some studies have found this not to be the case.
- Exposure to sawdust. Results have been mixed, but some studies have found a link between working with wood and sawdust and an increased risk of hairy cell leukemia.
