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What is non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Illustration showing the outline of a human body with small, bean-shaped glands (lymph nodes) throughout the body which are connected by vein-like lines (lymph vessels). The lymph nodes and lymph glands are labelled.
  • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer that affects the white blood cells that help you fight infection (lymphocytes).
  • Lymphocytes travel through thin tubes (lymph vessels) and glands (lymph nodes) throughout your body.
  • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can cause painless lumps in your glands. These are usually found in your neck, armpit or the area at the top of your inner thigh (groin).
  • There are over 60 different types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can be slow growing (low grade) or fast growing (high grade).
  • If diagnosed early, treatment can often get rid of some types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma completely. But other types may need long-term treatment.
  • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can affect people of any age, including children, but it mostly affects older people.
Information:

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is different to Hodgkin lymphoma, which is less common and often affects young adults as well as older adults.

Page last reviewed: 10 March 2026
Next review due: 10 March 2029