Astrocytoma - Childhood: Risk Factors

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 09/2023

ON THIS PAGE: You will find out more about the factors that increase the chance of developing astrocytoma. Use the menu to see other pages.

What are the risk factors for astrocytoma?

A risk factor is anything that increases a person’s chance of developing a tumor. Although risk factors often influence the development of a tumor, most do not directly cause a tumor. Some people with several risk factors never develop a tumor, while others with no known risk factors do.

Doctors and researchers do not know what causes most childhood tumors. There is some evidence that genetics may play a role in a small percentage of children with cerebral astrocytoma. The following factors may increase a child’s risk of developing astrocytoma:

The next section in this guide is Symptoms and Signs. It explains what changes or medical problems astrocytoma can cause. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.