Research show that diagnoses for cancer are increasing in younger people, especially those under age 50. Why are so many young people getting cancer?
Certain types of cancer are developing at higher rates than older generations. This rise in early-onset cancers, including colorectal, breast and gastrointestinal cancers, is alarming and demands attention.
If you are younger than 50 and want to discuss your risks of developing cancer at a younger age, make an appointment with your primary care provider.
Why are young people getting cancer more?
While it feels like younger people – defined as those under age 50 – are getting cancer more often, the context is important. Since 2010, rates of 14 cancer types have increased in young people.
The most notable increases are in:
- Breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Uterine and endometrial cancers
- Kidney and pancreatic cancers
Other types of cancer on the rise in young people include:
- Testicular cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Certain lymphomas
However, no single cause exists, and these increases are worldwide, not just in the United States. Experts agree that multiple overlapping factors are driving the rise in early‑onset cancer, many of which affect people earlier in life than in previous generations.
Several factors may be contributing to the increased incidence of cancer among young adults.
Environmental factors
One major element that could be influencing cancer rates is environmental exposure.
Air pollution, endocrine-disrupting chemicals and toxins in our workplace and household environments are more prevalent, which may be raising the risk factor for cancer in younger generations. Earlier exposure to these can influence cancer development much later in life.
Lifestyle factors
Unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are all linked to cancer. A diet high in processed foods, red meat and added sugars can contribute to cancers like colorectal cancer. Conversely, maintaining a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can reduce cancer risk.
Physical inactivity can also increase the likelihood of developing certain cancers. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain and obesity, both of which are high-risk factors for cancers like breast, colorectal and gastrointestinal cancers.
Researchers have linked obesity to higher risk of early-onset cancer for 13 different types, such as colorectal and breast.
Genetics
The genes you inherit from your family significant role in cancer development. A family history of cancer may increase a young person’s likelihood of developing cancer earlier in life.
Some genetic conditions that can raise your risk of early-onset cancers include:
- BRCA gene mutations
- Lynch syndrome
- Familial adenomatous polyposis
These are more likely to lead to cancer diagnosis in younger people, especially in the case of early-onset breast cancer. Knowing your family history and sharing it with your provider can help guide screening decisions.
Earlier and expanded screening
Not all reasons for rising cancer rates in young people are negative. Some of the increase may be a result of better detection, not more disease.
Examples of earlier detection include:
- Colorectal cancer screening now begins at age 45, not 50
- Imaging and diagnostic tools are more widely used
This means more cancers are being caught earlier – a positive development for survival.
At what age is cancer most common?
Typically, cancer is more common in individuals older than age 50. This is because as we age, cells accumulate more mutations, increasing the chance of developing cancer.
However, the rise in early-onset cancers – such as colorectal cancer and breast cancer – is shifting the demographic profile of cancer patients.
Today, more people in their 30s and 40s are receiving diagnoses of cancers traditionally associated with older age groups. Because of this, more people are beginning to ask why are young people getting cancer more than did previously.
For this reason, health professionals are beginning to advocate for cancer screenings to start at younger ages for high-risk individuals. Organizations like the American Cancer Society have updated guidelines to recommend earlier screenings for conditions such as colorectal cancer, particularly for those with a family history of cancer or other high-risk factors.
Which cancer is most aggressive?
Cancer aggressiveness varies by type, but some of the most aggressive cancers include pancreatic cancer, certain forms of breast cancer and lung cancer. In young people, early-onset breast cancer can be particularly aggressive. Breast cancers in younger women tend to grow more rapidly, while the lack of routine screenings lead to diagnosis in later stages.
Similarly, early-onset colorectal cancer is becoming more aggressive in younger adults. Research shows that colorectal cancer cases in individuals younger than 50 are often diagnosed at more advanced stages, partly because routine screening typically starts at age 50.
Can young people reduce their cancer risk?
While the biggest indicator of cancer is often a combination of personal and family medical history, taking certain steps can help lower your risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber
- Limit alcohol
- Avoid tobacco
- Stay physically active
- Keep up with recommended screenings
Early detection is critical in cancer prognosis. Stay aware of early symptoms, such as
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fatigue
- Changes in bowel habits
- Abnormal growths
Noticing these and other changes in your health can lead to early detection, improving the chances of successful treatment.
How we can help
Why are so many young people getting cancer? It depends on a combination of family history, lifestyle and environmental factors. But being proactive by staying aware of your health and getting necessary screenings can lower your risk or catch cancer early.
If you’re concerned with your risk of developing cancer at a younger age, especially if you’re younger than 50, make an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss your options.
Learn more about the cancer care and oncology services we offer at Bon Secours.
