Leukemia is also known as blood cancer as it affects the tissues that form blood. While the exact cause of leukemia is not very clear, there are many risk factors that can increase the risk of developing leukemia. The article lists out all the risk factors for leukemia.

Family history
One of the key risk factors for leukemia is family history. Those with a family history of leukemia are considered to be at a higher risk of developing leukemia than others. Apart from leukemia, those whose close family members have other forms of cancer may also be at risk.

It must be noted that this does not mean that all those whose family members had leukemia would develop the disease.

Smoking
The ill-effects of smoking are well-known. Studies have revealed the link between smoking and cancer. Those who smoke cigarettes have a higher risk of developing a form of leukemia, known as acute myelogenous leukemia. Second-hand exposure to cigarette smoke can also pose a risk and hence care should be exercised.

Blood disorders
Those who have certain types of blood disorders are more at risk of developing leukemia. Myelodysplastic syndrome is a blood disorder, which is sometimes referred to as preleukemia. Having this disorder increases the risk of developing leukemia.

Exposure to radiation
Those who are suffering from other types of cancer and have undergone radiation therapy are at risk of developing leukemia. Exposure to radiation is a known factor that increases the risk of cancer. Those who undergo chemotherapy are also at risk of developing leukemia. It must be noted that exposure to radiation does not mean a person will get leukemia, it only increases the risk.

Exposure to chemicals
Certain chemicals like benzene that was earlier used in the chemical industry and also in gasoline has been found to increase the risk of cancers like leukemia. Exposure to benzene and formaldehyde can enhance the risk of developing leukemia.

Genetic disorders
Some genetic disorders are believed to increase the risk of developing leukemia. Down syndrome, for example, is a genetic disorder that is believed to cause gene mutations. These mutations can increase the risk of developing cancers like leukemia.

Obesity
Being obese or overweight by itself is not a risk factor for leukemia. It can increase the risk of developing cancer if combined with other risk factors. Obesity leads to various other problems, which can, in turn, cause leukemia.

The information on the risk factors for leukemia in the article would have helped one understand if they are at risk of developing this disease. Anyone at risk needs to be alert and undergo regular health checkups so that they can be treated early in case they develop this disease.