The risk of developing a second cancer in Hodgkin lymphoma survivors

This study looked at the effect of family history on the development of secondary cancers in Hodgkin lymphoma survivors. The authors concluded that HL survivors have a higher risk of developing a secondary cancer than the general population, especially if they have a family history of cancer. 

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is generally considered a curable disease. HL survivors are living longer. This has led to an increase in the risk of developing another cancer. A family history of cancer may also play a role in developing secondary cancers. More research is needed to determine the level of risk of developing a secondary cancer. 

The medical records of 9,522 patients were reviewed. All patients were HL survivors. The average length of follow-up was 12.6 years.

1,121 patients developed at least one secondary cancer. HL survivors were 2.39 times more likely to develop a secondary cancer than the general population. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, lung cancer, breast cancer, and skin cancer were the most common.

2,785 HL survivors had a family history of cancer. HL survivors with a first degree relative (FDR; parent, sibling, or child) were 2.83 times more likely to develop a secondary cancer compared with HL survivors without an FDR with cancer. The risk increased with the number of first degree relatives who had cancer. 

The authors concluded that Hodgkin lymphoma survivors are at higher risk of developing a secondary cancer, and the risk is increased even more for HL survivors with a family history of cancer.