Diseases and Conditions
Myelodysplastic syndromes
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Complications
Diagnosis
Treatment
Lifestyle and home remedies
Preparing for an appointment
Risk factors
Factors that can increase your risk of myelodysplastic syndromes include:
- Older age. Most people with myelodysplastic syndromes are older than 60.
- Previous treatment with chemotherapy or radiation. Chemotherapy or radiation therapy, both of which are commonly used to treat cancer, can increase your risk of myelodysplastic syndromes.
- Exposure to certain chemicals. Chemicals, including benzene, have been linked to myelodysplastic syndromes.