Can Myelodysplastic Syndromes Be Prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). But there are things you can do that might lower your risk.

Not smoking

Since smoking is linked to an increased risk of MDS, not smoking can lower the risk. Of course, people who don't smoke are also less likely than people who smoke to develop many other types of cancers, as well as heart disease, stroke, and other diseases.

Avoiding exposure to radiation or certain chemicals

Avoiding known cancer-causing industrial chemicals, such as benzene, might lower your risk of developing MDS. 

Treating cancer with radiation and certain chemotherapy drugs can increase the risk of MDS. Doctors are studying ways to limit the risk of MDS in patients who get these treatments. For some cancers, doctors may try to avoid using the chemotherapy drugs that are more likely to lead to MDS. Some people, however, may need these specific drugs. Often, the obvious benefits of treating life-threatening cancers with chemo and radiation therapy must be balanced against the small chance of developing MDS several years later.