Who Is at Risk?



Risk Factors

Studies have identified the following risk factors for leukemia: older, male, white, working with certain chemicals, smoking, exposure to very high levels of radiation, certain health conditions, and past treatment with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

More than 65 percent of people diagnosed with leukemia are over 55. Leukemia occurs more often in men than women and is more common among white people than other races.

Exposure to Benzene

Chronic exposure to certain chemicals may lead to the development of leukemia. Benzene is a widely used chemical that has been linked to leukemia. The greatest risk of exposure to high concentrations of benzene is worksites such as chemical plants and gasoline-related industries. However, government agencies have regulated the amount of benzene exposure in the U.S. industry, so cases of leukemia linked to benzene now are rare in this country.

Benzene is usually found in low levels in the general environment. However, areas around gasoline stations, high vehicular traffic, and industrial sources may have higher levels. Benzene is also found in tobacco smoke. It is estimated that about half of the benzene exposure in the United States is from cigarette smoke. Smoking is a risk factor for leukemia.

Disorders and Genetic Diseases


Radiation Exposure


Cancer Treatments

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy have been helpful to a lot of people in the treatment of many forms of cancer, and indeed are often lifesaving. These therapies have been linked to the development of second cancers, including leukemia, many years after treatment. Chemotherapy for a first cancer is a stronger risk factor for developing leukemia later than is radiation therapy. The combination of chemotherapy and radiation can significantly increase the risk of leukemia after a first cancer.


