Does having autoimmune disorder (atopic disease in my mind, but also otherwise) lead to an increased risk of immune cell cancer?

Autoimmune disorders, such as atopic diseases like eczema, asthma, and allergies, do not directly increase the risk of immune cell cancers. However, there is some evidence that suggests that individuals with autoimmune disorders may be at a slightly increased risk of certain types of cancers, such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers of the blood and immune system.

This increased risk is thought to be due to the abnormal functioning of the immune system in individuals with autoimmune disorders. In these individuals, the immune system is overactive and produces too many immune cells, which can lead to an increased risk of mutations and the development of cancer.

However, it's important to note that the overall risk of developing cancer in individuals with autoimmune disorders is still relatively low. The majority of individuals with autoimmune disorders do not develop cancer, and many factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and environment, can also play a role in the development of cancer.

If you have an autoimmune disorder and are concerned about your risk of cancer, it's a good idea to discuss this with your healthcare provider, who can provide you with more information and guidance.

/r/askscience Thread