What is Hodgkin’s Lymphoma?

Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a cancer that develops in the lymphatic system.  The lymphatic system is a part of the body’s immune system and assists in combating infections and diseases.  The lymphatic system consists of lymphatic vessels that carry lymph nodes and lymph.  Lymph contains infection-fighting cells called lymphocytes.  Lymph nodes are found in the underarm, groin, neck and abdomen.  The other components of the lymphatic system are the spleen, thymus, tonsils and bone marrow.

 

Hodgkin’s lymphoma affects the cells of the lymphatic system and may spread to other organs.  Hodgkin’s causes the body to become less able to fight off disease.

 

The causes of Hodgkin’s lymphoma are unknown.  Unlike other forms of cancer, it cannot be traced directly back to a specific environmental factor or to a genetic link.  For most people who have Hodgkin’s, doctors do not know what caused it.

 

To learn more about Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, please contact the American Cancer Society at 800-227-2345.  You can also visit them online at www.cancer.org.

 

Phone code: 1744

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