At this time there are no specific guidelines for reducing your risk of MDS. The cause of MDS is unknown and most of the identified risk factors are beyond your control. The only risk factor you can control to a certain extent is your exposure to industrial chemicals.
If you are exposed to any chemical for prolonged periods of time, check with a Poison Control Center (in the phone book or at
http://www.aapcc.org/
) to determine the risks associated with this exposure. If your exposure is at work, there may be information or assistance available through your employer. The toxins suspected of causing MDS are petrochemicals, benzene, and rubber.
Down’s syndrome
, Fanconi’s anemia, or von Recklinghausen’s disease all increase your risk of MDS. If you have one of these conditions, you should be monitored regularly by your physician for signs of MDS.
Radiation therapy and chemotherapy, used almost exclusively for treating cancer, may increase your risk of MDS very slightly. If you have received either of these treatments, see your doctor for checkups on a regular basis.
Last reviewed May 2007 by Igor Puzanov, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © EBSCO Publishing. All rights reserved.
