Worried about low wbc in prev blood work w physicals. in 2016 wbc was 4.1 (range 4.8-10.8) and mchc was 32.5 (33-37 range). all other cbc was ok. also, in 2015, wbc was 4.5. in 2014 it was 5.3. in 2013/2012 it was 4.8. should i worry ab cancer??

Unlikely: Low WBC (slightly below normal as in your case) in the absence of symptoms or complaint is unlikely to be of concern. It is common to have low WBC in cases of viral infections.

Dont worry: It is a very marginal decrease and seems to be stable. this won't put you at risk for infections. Marginal low wbc count is not a indictor of cancer in itself. If there are any other symptoms associated with it then see your doctor or else if you feel well, no need to treat the blood results .

WBC: Neutropenia or low WBC that can be associAted with cancer would be a count less than 1. I would have little suspicion for cancer given a count of 4.1

Leukopenia: or low WBC count can be from many causes, most usually viral illness; however, underlying medical issues must be evaluated. I suggest a hematology consultation.

You're good Craig: White cell counts fluctuate wildly even over the course of a day. If you're experimentally inclined, see if you can get tested before and after a long, cold shower -- a rise of 5000 or more would be common. Reference ranges are set so that a few percent of healthies fall outside on either end. Keep up routine cancer surveillance and be thankful for good health

Likelihood of cancer: The likelihood of a slightly low WBC count being caused by cancer is very low. The "normal ranges" account for approximately 95% of normal individuals. 2.5% of normal people have lower WBC counts and 2.5% have higher counts. Many things can lower WBC counts, to include viral infection, certain medications, and other illnesses. Bottom line, these "low" counts may be normal for you.