1 Lymphoma is the general term used to describe cancers of the lymphatic system a vital part of the body s defense against infection. Non-Hodgkin s lymphoma is the second fastest rising cancer in incidence and death rates in the United States.
Lymphoma is the third most common childhood cancer.
Over half a million people are currently living with lymphoma. Over 62,300 people will be diagnosed with lymphoma in 2000, including 54,900 with non-Hodgkin s lymphoma and 7,400 with Hodgkin s disease. The causes of lymphoma remain unknown. Potential causes include exposure to environmental carcinogens, pesticides, herbicides or other toxic materials, and viruses and bacteria. Patients with immune system impairment from an organ transplant or AIDS are also at greater risk for lymphoma.