Fact 2: Risk Factors & Causes
While youth has its own set of challenges, aging brings about its own set of susceptibilities, especially when it comes to health. DLBCL tends to be more partial to older adults, particularly those over the age of 60. But it’s not just the ticking of the clock that plays a role. As we age, our body systems, including the immune system, can wane in efficacy, making older individuals more vulnerable.
You’d be surprised how much a tiny bacterial or viral entity can shake things up in our body. Specific infections, including those caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) or Helicobacter pylori bacteria, can set the stage for DLBCL. How? These pathogens can lead to prolonged inflammation within the lymphatic system, creating an environment conducive for cancerous transformations.
The environment we inhabit plays a more significant role in our health than we often credit it for. Being exposed to certain chemicals, especially those linked with agricultural practices, can increase one’s risk of developing DLBCL. Over time, these chemicals might interfere with cellular processes, leading to mutations.
A robust immune system is a formidable fortress. But when it’s compromised, the gates are more open to a host of diseases, DLBCL being one of them. This compromise can arise from inherited conditions, diseases like HIV, or even medications that suppress immune responses. These factors, while not direct causes, certainly facilitate the onset of the condition. (2)
