What is Hodgkin lymphoma and why teens and people in their 20s should be careful

Fatigue, painless lumps, or night sweats in teens should never be ignored — early detection of Hodgkin Lymphoma can save lives. (Image: Pexels)

Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system — a crucial part of the immune system. The lymphatic system is responsible for fighting infection and maintaining fluid balance. Hodgkin Lymphoma occurs when lymphocytic white blood cells grow uncontrollably, forming lumps or tumours in the lymph nodes. If not treated at an early stage, it can spread to the spleen, liver, and other organs.

While anyone can be affected by it, the disease is most commonly diagnosed in teenagers and young adults (ages 15–35). The problem is its early symptoms can often be mistaken for everyday teenage problems — stress, fatigue, minor infections — so it tends to go unrecognized.

Dr Aditi Mehra, consultant physician at Sunrise Care Multispeciality Hospital, explains its warning signs, risk factors, and how teenagers can guard themselves against it.

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What is Hodgkin Lymphoma?

Hodgkin Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, the network of glands that play a role in filtering out harmful substances and fighting infections. The most common is painless swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin.

Why Teens Should Be Careful

Symptoms Are Often Overlooked, such as:

• Swollen lymph nodes (painless lumps) in the neck, armpit or groin
• Unexplained fatigue and weakness
• Frequent fevers or night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss
• Itchy skin without a visible rash

Common Risk Factors for Teens:

Although no one knows for sure what causes it, several risk factors make you more likely to get it:

• Family history of lymphoma
• Past viral diseases such as Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV).
• Weakened immune system
• Being male (slightly higher risk)
• Diet (junk food) and choice of food (smoking, vaping, no exercise)

Early Detection Saves Lives

Hodgkin Lymphoma is one of the most curable cancers with a survival rate of above 90 percent, if early diagnosed, says Mehra. But if detected later, the cancer can have already spread, and the consequence is more intensive treatment, for example, high-dose chemotherapy and high-dose radiation, which carry the risk of long-term and life-threatening side effects, including infertility or heart disease.

How Teens Can Stay Safe

Listen to your body: See a doctor if swollen nodes, fatigue, or other symptoms last more than 2 weeks.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep strengthen immunity.

Avoid harmful habits: Smoking, vaping, and drugs weaken the immune system.

Stay informed: Awareness is key to prevention and early treatment.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.