La Hodgkin’s disease accounts for 1% of all cancers and affects the lymphatic system, one of the components of the immune system. It is characterized by the abnormal development and transformation of immune cells called type B lymphocytes. These cells grow, proliferate and accumulate in the lymph nodes.

Hodgkin’s disease most often begins in lymph nodes located in the upper part of the body (neck or armpits) but it can also appear in the groin. These abnormal cells prevent the immune system from effectively fighting off the infections. Hodgkin’s disease can also spread to other parts of the lymphatic system: the spleen, thymus, and bone marrow.

This type of cancer affects about 5 in 100 people. It most often manifests around the age of 000, or around 30, when there are two peaks in the frequency of this disease. Most of them are young adults, the median age of discovery being 60 years.

Current treatments allow this disease to be completely cured on average in more than 80% of cases.

Causes

The cause of the Hodgkin’s disease. However, some research has shown that people who have already contracted virus d’Epstein-Barr (responsible for infectious mononucleosis) seem to have a higher risk of developing this type of cancer. There could also be genetic factors.

When to consult?

See your doctor if you discover any painless mass, especially in the region of your cou, which does not go away after a few weeks.