Leukemia - Eosinophilic: Risk Factors

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 08/2017

ON THIS PAGE: You will find out more about the factors that increase the chance of developing eosinophilic leukemia. 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 leukemia, most do not directly cause leukemia. Some people with several risk factors never develop leukemia, 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.

Eosinophilic leukemia can very rarely be caused by a genetic mutation that develops during a person’s life because of environmental factors, smoking, and chemical or radiation exposure. However, no specific cause can be found for most patients with eosinophilic leukemia.

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.