Lymphoma - A Job Hazard Inhaling toxins on the job can lead to lymphoma, recent independent studies suggest. Firefighters risk developing non-Hodgkin's lymphoma when they remove their masks amid toxic smoke; occupational exposure to pesticides increases instances of the disease in asthmatics; and chemical solvents (benzene, toluene, and xylene) used in manufacturing can cause both Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Lymphoma is a malignant cancer of the lymphoid tissue. It can spread through the lymph vessels and the bloodstream, invading other tissues and organs. Treatments for lymphoma include radiation, chemotherapy, and experimental immunotherapy. Presently, there is no cure, only remission.