Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. It develops in the lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell.
According to the American Cancer Society’s estimates, in 2023, around 80,550 people will be diagnosed with NHL, and almost 20180 people will succumb to this illness. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma accounts for 4% of all cancers in the US and is one of the most common ones.
We are sharing some facts about this disease to ensure you can take corrective action if you or your loved ones have been affected by the same.
1. Probable Causal Agents of NHL
Several chemicals have been associated with an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), although the evidence for each chemical varies.
1. Pesticides
Exposure to certain pesticides, such as glyphosate and chlorpyrifos, has been linked to an increased risk of NHL. Glyphosate is the active ingredient in Roundup weedkiller, a product of Monsanto, now acquired by Bayer.
If you or a loved one has been affected by NHL, other lymphatic cancers, or leukemia due to exposure to Roundup Weedkiller, you may be eligible to sue the manufacturers and receive compensation. The average payout that you can receive by filing a lawsuit can be arrived at by browsing reliable online resources and sharing the latest updates on the Roundup lawsuit payout.
2. Solvents
Benzene and trichloroethylene are solvents that have been linked to an increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). These solvents are known to be carcinogens, meaning that they can cause cancer.
Studies have shown that people who are occupationally exposed to these solvents, such as workers in the petrochemical and dry cleaning industries, have a higher risk of developing NHL.
Studies have also suggested that exposure to these solvents through contaminated drinking water may also increase the risk of developing NHL. Veterans who were affected by the infamous Camp Lejeune water contamination case are reimbursed for medical expenses for a list of diseases, including Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, as benzene was one of the contaminants there.
3. Petrol and Diesel Engine Exhaust
Exposure to petrol and diesel exhausts has been linked to an increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma or NHL. Petrol and diesel exhausts contain a complex mixture of pollutants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or PAHs, which are known to be carcinogens.
These pollutants can be inhaled, and studies have shown that people who are occupationally exposed to petrol and diesel exhausts, such as traffic police, truck drivers, and gas station attendants, have a higher risk of developing NHL.
4. Radiation
Exposure to high levels of ionizing radiation, such as that emitted by X-rays and radioactive materials, has been linked to an increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
Studies of atomic bomb survivors and workers in the nuclear industry have shown that exposure to ionizing radiation can increase the risk of NHL, as well as other types of cancer.
However, it’s important to note that most people are exposed to low levels of ionizing radiation daily, such as from natural sources like the sun, and the risk of developing cancer from this exposure is considered to be low.
2. Symptoms of NHL
The symptoms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) can vary depending on the type of lymphoma and the stage of the disease. However, some common symptoms include the ones mentioned below.
1. Swollen Lymph Nodes
One of the most common symptoms of NHL is swollen lymph nodes, which are usually painless. Lymph nodes are found throughout the body and help to filter out bacteria and other foreign substances from the body.
2. Fatigue
People with NHL may feel tired and weak, even after sleeping or resting.
3. Weight Loss
Some people with NHL may lose weight without trying.
4. Fever
Some people with NHL may have a low-grade fever.
5. Shortness of Breath
If the lymphoma is in the chest, it can cause shortness of breath.
Other symptoms may include night sweats, itchy skin, chest pain, abdominal pain, or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.
If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
3. Treatment of NHL
Treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences.
There have been vast strides in cancer research, and the oncology drugs market was valued at $ 202.9 billion globally in 2022 by market research firm Persistence Market Research. They also predict a CAGR of 5.5% from 2023 to 2033.
The main treatment options for NHL include the ones mentioned below.
- Chemotherapy – Intravenous or oral Drugs are used to kill cancer cells.
- Radiotherapy – High-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy – Targets specific molecules on the surface of cancer cells to disrupt their growth and survival.
- Immunotherapy – Helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
- Stem cell transplant – Replaces the cells that were destroyed by chemo.
The exact cause of NHL is not known, but certain risk factors have been identified, including exposure to ionizing radiation, certain chemicals, and certain infections. The main treatment options for NHL include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplant, and surgery.
It’s important to note that research on NHL is ongoing, and new treatment options and strategies are being developed all the time. Regular follow-up care is also important to monitor for any changes in cancer and to ensure that the patient receives the best possible care.
