Lymphoma is the general term for cancer in your lymphatic system – the network of tissues, vessels, and organs that help your body fight infection.
While it is considered a blood cancer because the condition starts in white blood cells in your lymphatic system, it is most common among men.
According to various studies, men consistently face a higher risk of this cancer, as experts believe the gap arises from a combination of issues which include biological differences, hormonal influences, genetic factors, and even environmental exposures – especially insecticides.
Higher incidence of lymphoma in men
Epidemiological data make the disparity clear – non-Hodgkin lymphoma is about one and a half times more common in men compared to women. In the United States, the lifetime risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma is roughly one in 42 for men, while for women it is closer to one in 54. “The same pattern holds for Hodgkin lymphoma, where men have a one in 110 chance of developing the disease, compared to one in 150 for women. Men are also more likely to present with aggressive forms of the disease and generally experience slightly poorer outcomes,” Dr Vijay Ramanan, Sr consultant, clinical haematologist, Ruby Hall Clinic, told Times Now.
Hormonal Protection
The immune system is strongly influenced by sex hormones, and this appears to play a protective role for women. “Estrogen is sometimes thought to have a protective role, but this remains unproven in lymphoma,” said Dr Preetam Jain, medical and paediatric hemato-oncologist, Saifee Hospital.
Estrogen exerts anti-cancer effects by regulating immune cell activity and reducing the likelihood of lymphoid malignancies. In contrast, testosterone may stimulate cellular pathways that promote abnormal lymphocyte growth.
“Genetics also matters. Many immune-related genes are located on the X chromosome. Since women carry two X chromosomes, they may benefit from an extra layer of immune defenCe, while men-who carry only one-are more vulnerable to genetic weaknesses in this area,” Dr Ramanan added.
Environmental exposures
Men are more likely to be employed in agriculture, landscaping, or pesticide-related industries, where frequent exposure to chemicals is common. Long-term contact with herbicides and insecticides, especially glyphosate and 2,4-D, has been associated with increased rates of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Immune differences
Men and women may respond differently to chronic infections or immune challenges, which could influence lymphoma risk.
How to lower the risk?
Experts suggest addressing disparities, which requires action on several fronts, like:
- Stricter regulation of harmful pesticides
- Safer farming practices
- Broader public awareness can help reduce preventable risks.
At the same time, recognizing these gender-based differences can guide future research into prevention and the development of more targeted therapies, ultimately improving outcomes for both men and women.
Common symptoms of lymphoma
Painless swelling of one or more lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, or groin that doesn’t go away within a few weeks.
- Persistent fatigue and tiredness
- High fever, which stays above 103 degrees Fahrenheit for more than three days
- Drenching night sweats, which are so intense that you wake up to find your pajamas and sheets soaking wet
- Breathlessness – when you feel as if you can’t get enough air in your lungs
- Losing at least 10 per cent of your total body weight over six months without dieting or exercise.