What Causes Leukemia?

Leukaemia blood cells

Leukemia is one type of cancer among many others. It is a life-threatening disease wherein the body produces too much white blood cells. Over production of these cells could mean excessive amount in any of the three types of white blood cells, namely granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes. As we all know, the blood is composed of red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells. The white blood cells are the ones responsible for protecting us from bacteria and viruses. If there is over production of these cells, the white blood cells do not fully mature. And without this proper development, they are not able to fight foreign bodies. The weakening of the immune system makes the body more prone to infection. Also, too much white blood cells may clog the bone marrow leaving no space for the red blood cells and platelets to develop. If red blood cells are not produced the cells of the body do not receive adequate oxygen. An illness called anemia then arises. On the other hand, lack of platelets cannot clot the blood properly. Small wounds can result to blood loss. Leukemia can either be acute or chronic. Causes of this sickness are not really known but researchers have speculations on what can trigger the disease. Some of these are the following:

1. Like any other types of cancer, genetics may play a role in getting leukemia. If one of your family members has the disease, the probability of you inheriting it is higher. This is why it is advisable to have a regular visit to a medical professional, especially if one of your relatives has the sickness. The earlier it is detected, the greater the chance of surviving.
2. Another possible cause of leukemia is exposure to carcinogens. These are chemicals or substances that damages cells leading to cancer. In short, it is anything that causes cancer. For example, tobaccos are researched to have carcinogens resulting to different kinds of cancers.
3. Some researchers say that radiation can also cause leukemia. This means exposure to x-rays and ultraviolet light can damage the body’s cells.
4. Some studies also show that the disease can be viral infections, although this has not been proven.
5. Lastly, getting exposed to toxic chemicals, like formaldehyde and benzene, can contribute in getting leukemia. Even some drugs used for chemotherapy may also be a factor, although this risk is too small considering the advantages of chemotherapy.