Hodgkins Lymphoma. Genetic inheritance?

I recently heard from ex-BF that he'd had stage 3 Hodgkins Lymphoma. Currently cancer free, but now with heart trouble. What are the chances that our now adult son could also get it? I've been searching the net and some say slight, some say yes, some say it's environment. Since none of this stuff has dates, what's the current scoop? I've only recently made contact with my son (given up for adoption) and just as soon not throw this at him until he actually wants info on his birthfather.

Hodgkins Lymphoma. Genetic inheritance?
Here's where you'll find the best info:


http://www.leukemia-lymphoma.org/hm_lls


It is best to give him as much info as possible.


In my case, no one in the family had it before. So, anything is possible.


Best wishes
Reply:Genetic Causes of Hodgkin's Disease





Scientific opinions differ regarding a link between genetics and the likelihood of developing HD.





One study of twins (Mack, et al, 1995) identified a significant genetic susceptibility to HD in young adulthood. They studied 366 sets of twins in which one of the twins had been diagnosed with Hodgkin's. In the fraternal twins (twins from two separate eggs) none of the 187 unaffected twins developed HD. In the identical twins (derived from the same fertilized egg, and therefore having the same genetic composition), ten out of the 179 unaffected twins developed HD.





Other experts believe a genetic cause for HD is unlikely. For instance, Dr. Alan C. Aisenberg, Department of Hematology and Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, argues that HD is no more likely to be hereditary than other types of cancer. He contends that the four- to five-fold increase of HD among identical twins is more likely due to environmental than genetic factors.
Reply:I think it may be beneficial for your son to know the medical history of his father just to be on the safe side, it may help with early detection if there are any genetic links.





I have also been doing research on genetic inheritance of Hodgkin's but have not been able to come up with definite answers (I have Hodgkin's and a 4yr old son I worry about). Most sites say there are increased chances of direct family members being diagnosed but they cannot determine whether it has to do with similar environmental conditions or genetics.





From personal experience I am the only member of my family (immediate and extended) that has had a Hodgkin's diagnosis. I have include the sites that I frequent when looking for answers, I hope they can help you, good luck!!





http://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/help/defaul...





http://www.lymphomainfo.net/lymphoma/cau...





http://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Cancertyp...





http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hodgkin...
Reply:I'm a 23 years HD Survivor. I have a twin who has never had it. There is no genetic cause for HD. Some people just get it. It's random in its selection.





Also--HD usually affects teens and young adults. Since your son is already older, he's getting close to being out of the danger zone anyway.





In any event, I do think you need to tell him just so he can have a complete medical background history.

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