What are Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)?
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of blood cancers that affect the bone marrow, the soft tissue inside bones where blood cells are made. In people with MDS, the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy blood cells. Instead, it creates abnormal or immature cells that do not function properly or die before reaching the bloodstream.
MDS is sometimes referred to as a bone marrow failure disorder. It can affect the production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. As a result, people with MDS may experience anemia, infections, bleeding problems, or a combination of these complications.
MDS is most common in older adults, with the average age at diagnosis around 70 years. While some forms of MDS progress slowly, others can become more aggressive and may develop into acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a type of blood and bone marrow cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 10,000 to 20,000 people are diagnosed with MDS in the United States each year. Because symptoms can be subtle and develop gradually, many people are diagnosed after routine blood tests reveal abnormalities.
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase a person's risk of developing MDS:
- Age
- MDS occurs most frequently in people over the age of 60.
- The risk increases with advancing age.
- Previous Cancer Treatment
- Certain chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy can increase the risk of developing treatment-related MDS years after treatment.
- Exposure to Chemicals
- Long-term exposure to chemicals such as benzene, found in gasoline and industrial products, has been linked to MDS.
- Tobacco Use
- Smoking may increase the risk of developing MDS due to exposure to cancer-causing chemicals.
- Genetic Disorders
- Certain inherited conditions, such as Fanconi anemia, Down syndrome, and other bone marrow failure syndromes, may increase the risk.
- Family History
- Most cases of MDS are not inherited, but rare familial syndromes can increase risk.
- Environmental and Occupational Exposures
- Exposure to pesticides, industrial solvents, and heavy metals may contribute to the development of MDS.
While these factors can increase the risk of MDS, having one or more risk factors does not mean that someone will develop the disease. Regular medical care and discussions with your healthcare provider can help identify potential concerns early.