What increases my risk of CML?

The cause of CML is unknown. But there are certain things called risk factors that can increase your chance of developing the disease.

These include:

• Age: CML happens mostly in people aged over 45
• Exposure chemicals: Long term exposure to benzene can increase your risk.
• Previous cancer treatment: If you have been treated with high doses of radiotherapy before, it can increase your risk.
• Exposure to radiation: Exposure to high doses of radiation in industry or nuclear accidents can increase your risk. This is unlikely to happen in Ireland.