Non-Hodgkins lymphoma can generally be divided into two types: aggressive, which means fast growing; and indolent, which means slow growing. In each type, there are many different variations - far too many to discuss in this limited space.
It begins when a lymphocyte mutates and becomes abnormal. This abnormal cell then starts dividing and making copies of itself. The new mutated cells divide again and again and again. With each division, the number doubles. The abnormal cells don't die like normal cells, and they don't protect the body from infections or other diseases like normal cells either. The buildup of extra cells forms a mass of tissue called a growth or a tumor.
The risk factors associated with developing this disease are a little sketchy. Researchers do know that weakened immune systems do make people more likely to develop the disease. They also know that certain infections can increase the risk of developing non-Hodgkins lymphoma; AIDS and hepatitis, for example. Age also creates a greater risk for developing non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Most new cases are diagnosed in people over the age of 60.
Researchers are looking into the possibility of obesity causing an increased risk getting this type of cancer, and they are also looking into how exposure to certain herbicides and other chemicals might contribute to the risk for contracting it.
=> http://cancer.need-to-know.net/
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