Leukemia Risk Factors and Screening

Understanding what may increase your risk for leukemia—and what can be done to lower that risk is an important step in protecting your health. While many risk factors for leukemia are out of your control, staying informed can help you make proactive choices, especially if you’re at higher risk. Knowing the signs and being aware of your personal risk can all play a role in early detection and better outcomes.

What are the risk factors for leukemia?

Leukemia is a complex disease, and in most cases, there is no clear cause. However, researchers have identified several factors that can increase the likelihood of developing leukemia over time. 

Who is most at risk?

  • Age: Leukemia is more common in older adults, especially those over 60. However, certain types—like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)—are more common in children. 
  • Gender: Men are generally more likely to develop leukemia than women. 
  • Previous cancer treatment: People who have received chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy for other cancers—especially both—may have a higher risk. 
  • Blood disorders: Conditions like myelodysplastic syndromes can increase the chance of developing leukemia. 
  • Environmental exposures: Long-term exposure to high levels of radiation, benzene (found in gasoline and industrial products), or certain chemicals in the petroleum and rubber industries have been linked to higher leukemia risk. 
  • Smoking: Cigarette smoking has been specifically associated with an increased risk of acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
  • Family history: Having close family members with leukemia may increase your risk, although inherited cases are rare. Some types of leukemia, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia and acute promyelocytic leukemia, is more common in patients of Hispanic background. Research at Columbia aims to figure out why this might be the case. 
  • Genetic syndromes: People with genetic conditions such as Down syndrome or Li-Fraumeni syndrome may have a higher risk for certain types of leukemia.

Can you prevent leukemia?

Most risk factors for leukemia are not things you can change. You can’t control your age, your family history, or past medical treatments. That’s why leukemia is not considered a preventable cancer in the same way some others are. 

However, there are still steps you can take that may help lower your overall cancer risk

  • Avoid tobacco use 
  • Minimize unnecessary exposure to radiation or harmful chemicals (such as benzene) 
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a nutritious diet and regular physical activity 
  • Follow recommended safety precautions if you work in industries with chemical exposure 

While these measures can support your general health and reduce your risk for other cancers, it is important to note that there is no guaranteed way to prevent leukemia.

Can you screen for leukemia?

There is no standard screening test for leukemia in people without symptoms or known risk factors. Unlike other cancer types, like breast or colon, routine leukemia screening is not recommended for the general population. 

People with the following risk factors may benefit from closer monitoring or early testing: 

  • A history of myelodysplastic syndromes or other high-risk blood disorders
  • Prior exposure to chemotherapy or radiation 
  • Known genetic syndromes associated with blood cancers 
  • A strong family history of leukemia or related conditions 

If you fall into one of these groups—or have persistent, unexplained symptoms like fatigue, infections, or bruising—talk to your doctor. They may recommend blood testing or other leukemia evaluations.