Risk factors for CLL
Factors that put you at increased risk for CLL include:
- Age (over 55)
- Family history (two or more close relatives who have had CLL or another cancer involving the lymphatic system.
- Gender (male)
- Race / Ethnicity (African, Russian or European heritage)
- Exposure to chemicals, especially Agent Orange, a herbicide used extensively during the Vietnam War
Symptoms of CLL
In the early stages, most people with CLL do not have any symptoms. However, when symptoms appear, they may include:
- Swollen lymph nodes (but no pain)
- Continuing fatigue
- Fever
- Bruising and bleeding
- Anemia (too few red blood cells)
- Night sweats
- Unintended weight loss
- Frequent infections
- Pain or swelling in the top left of the abdomen, usually caused by an enlarged spleen