Types of blood cancer

Blood cancer is a type of cancer that can be found in a person’s bone marrow, blood cells, lymph nodes, and other parts of our lymphatic system. (The lymphatic system is part of the body’s immune system, which helps protect us against disease and infection.) 

There are five main types of blood cancer: leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Most types of blood cancer can be further categorized into different subtypes, each with their own signs and symptoms, diagnostic factors, and treatment approaches. 

Types of blood cancer

What causes blood cancer?  

Most blood cancers do not have a specific, identifiable cause, though scientists do believe blood cancer begins when a mutation occurs in our blood cells’ DNA, leading to uncontrolled growth and reproduction of these cancer cells.  

While the exact cause of blood cancer may not always be clear, several factors can increase the risk of developing blood cancer, including genetics, a family history of blood cancer, radiation exposure, or contact with certain hazardous chemicals. 

For example, exposure to Agent Orange, benzene, and other industrial chemicals (such as pesticides, herbicides, formaldehyde, toluene, and arsenic) has been linked to an increased risk of blood cancer.  

Here’s a closer look at some factors associated with specific types of blood cancer:  

• Leukemia and myeloma: These types may be linked to genetic factors, previous cancer treatments, or exposure to high levels of radiation and chemicals like benzene.
• Lymphoma: Factors include a weakened immune system, presence of rheumatologic illnesses (such as Sjögren's syndrome), certain viral infections (such as the Epstein-Barr virus), and possibly exposure to pesticides or herbicides.
• Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs): This may be related to genetic mutations, such as changes in the JAK2 gene, which can affect blood cell production.
• Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS): MDS can be associated with genetic abnormalities, previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene and heavy metals, which can damage the DNA of blood cells.  

Reducing exposure to known risk factors—such as avoiding tobacco, limiting contact with harmful chemicals, and keeping a healthy lifestyle—can help lower your risk.