Causes of Hodgkin lymphoma

Who is more likely to get Hodgkin lymphoma

It is not known what causes Hodgkin lymphoma, but there are things that may increase your chances of getting it.

Anyone can get Hodgkin lymphoma, but you may be at higher risk if:

• you’re in your early 20s or late 70s
• you’re a man
• you’ve had the Epstein-Barr virus, which causes glandular fever
• you have a weakened immune system – either from a health condition such as HIV or because you are having treatment that weakens your immune system
• you have a close relative (parent, brother or sister) who’s had Hodgkin lymphoma
• you smoke
• you are overweight