Causes of Myelodysplastic Syndrome

Dr. Kenneth D. Nahum, a dedicated hematologist and oncologist, holds board certifications in medical oncology, internal medicine, and hematology. A physician at Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA), Dr. Kenneth D. Nahum has been involved in dozens of research studies, including one on myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

A rare group of disorders, MDS is also called bone marrow failure disorder. The bone marrow of patients with this condition does not produce healthy blood cells. 

In healthy people, the bone marrow changes stem cells into red and white blood cells. These blood cells start out immature and develop over time. 

In people with MDS, the process is disrupted and the cells die in the bone marrow. Eventually, the number of immature cells in the bone marrow outnumber the healthy cells.

Scientists are unsure of the cause of MDS, but the disorder has been linked to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and exposure to certain chemicals. The condition is more common among men than women and in people over age 60. Researchers believe this may be because men have a greater chance of being exposed to chemicals in the workplace.

Since the cause of MDS is unknown, preventing the condition is not possible. Still, people can reduce their risk by limiting their exposure to radiation and industrial chemicals such as benzene. Not smoking also reduces the risk of MDS.