Leukemia - Acute Lymphocytic - ALL: Risk Factors

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 05/2017

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

A risk factor is anything that increases a person’s chance of developing cancer. Although risk factors often influence the development of cancer, most do not directly cause cancer. Some people with several risk factors never develop cancer, while others with no known risk factors do. Knowing your risk factors and talking about them with your doctor may help you make more informed lifestyle and health care choices.

The cause of ALL is not known. In general, ALL is most likely to affect children and older adults. The following factors may raise a person’s risk of developing ALL:

  • Age. Children younger than 15 and adults older than 50 are more likely to develop ALL.

  • Race. White people are somewhat more likely than black people to develop ALL for reasons that are not understood.

  • Genetic conditions. People with some genetic conditions have a higher risk of ALL than the general population. These conditions include the following syndromes:

  • High doses of radiation. People who have been exposed to high levels of radiation may be more likely to develop ALL. This includes long-term survivors of atomic bombs. Exposure to electromagnetic fields or high-voltage electric lines has not been proven to increase a person’s risk of ALL. Cell phone use is not a known risk factor for ALL.

  • Viruses. Occasionally, ALL or specific types of lymphoma can be associated with a previous viral infection. Such infections include human T-cell leukemia virus-1 or the Epstein-Barr virus.

According to recent research, many young children who develop ALL may have had genetic changes before birth that are signs of ALL, although it may take several years before the disease develops and causes symptoms. Researchers are studying this topic to learn more.

The next section in this guide is Symptoms and Signs. It explains what body changes or medical problems this disease can cause. You may use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.