Cancer has usually been thought of as a disease that mostly affects older people, but that is starting to change. Around the world, more people under age 50 are being diagnosed with cancer.
In fact, while overall cancer rates have gone down in recent decades, that is not true for younger adults. Certain cancers like breast in younger women, colon, uterine, pancreatic and kidney cancers are increasing, especially among people in their 20s, 30s and 40s.
“Someone born in 1990 has four times the chance of getting rectal cancer and more than twice the chance of getting colon cancer compared to someone born in 1950 and of the same age,” said Kelly Rosso, MD, a surgical oncologist with Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. “We have seen that each new generation faces a higher risk of early cancer and this trend is still going on.”
While we don’t have all the answers yet, the rise suggests that you can’t just assume “I’m too young to worry.” We spoke with Dr. Rosso to learn more about what is driving the rise in early-onset cancer rates and what you can do to prevent it.
Why are more young adults getting cancer?
Cancer is a complex disease. There isn’t just one reason why it happens. Experts think many things are contributing to the increase.
“A single cause hasn’t been identified but it’s likely related to a combination of lifestyle and environmental factors,” Dr. Rosso said.
Some possible reasons include:
Lifestyle factors
“Behaviors like being inactive, eating lots of processed food or being overweight change your body’s environment in ways that may raise risk,” Dr. Rosso said.
High body weight is a known risk factor for several types of cancer. These include colon, breast, uterine, kidney and pancreatic cancer. Extra body fat releases hormones and chemicals that may contribute to abnormal cell growth over time.
Smoking and drinking alcohol can both cause health problems. "Alcohol can raise the chance of getting at least seven types of cancer, such as breast, colorectal and liver cancer,” Dr. Rosso said. “Tobacco products can also put harmful chemicals into your body that can damage your DNA.”
Gut health
Your gut contains trillions of bacteria that help digest food, keep your immune system strong and fight sickness. Eating less fiber and more processed foods can disturb this balance. This may contribute to inflammation, which could raise the risk of colorectal cancer.
Sleep, stress and hormones
Sleep and stress might seem unrelated to cancer, but they matter. When you don't sleep well, it can mess up hormones like melatonin. Melatonin helps your body repair damaged cells. If you're under a lot of stress for a long time, your body produces more cortisol. Too much cortisol may weaken your immune system over time, making it harder for your body to repair damage.
Environmental exposures
Certain chemicals, pollution and substances called endocrine disruptors can disturb your body's hormones and DNA. This may increase the chance of getting cancer.
Changes in screening and diagnosis
For some types of cancer, like breast, thyroid and prostate, doing more tests and screening can help find more cases early.
“We are also seeing people diagnosed with colorectal cancer at earlier ages, which has led to a recent change to start colonoscopy screening at age 45,” Dr. Rosso said.
What does this mean for you?
If you’re reading this and you’re under 50, don’t panic. Many cancers are still far more common in older people. But it does mean you should take your health seriously.
Here are some realistic steps you can take now, whatever your age.
- Move your body: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.
- Eat healthy meals: Make fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and legumes the base of your diet.
- Get quality sleep: Seven to nine hours per night helps your body repair and regulate hormones.
- Limit alcohol: For cancer prevention, it’s best not to drink alcohol. If you choose to drink, be aware of the risks, aim to drink less often and have fewer drinks.
- Avoid tobacco: Smoking and tobacco use account for one-in-three of all cancer deaths in the United States. There is no safe form of tobacco.
- Lose weight: Even modest weight loss, which includes 5% to 10% of your body weight, can significantly reduce your risk.
- Know your family history: “If you have a strong family history of cancer, talk to your provider about genetic counseling or early screening,” Dr. Rosso said.
- Stay up to date on screenings: Talk to your provider about what cancer screenings are needed for your age. Find out if you are at increased risk for any cancers and if so, ask for an individualized screening plan.
- Get vaccinated: Make sure you are up to date on your HPV and hepatitis B vaccines.
- Protect yourself from UV rays: Limit your exposure to the sun especially between 10am and 4pm and avoid tanning beds. When you are in the sun, wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Listen to your body: “Do not ignore any changes with your body,” Dr. Rosso said. “Talk to your provider if something isn’t right.”
[Also read: Ways to Reduce Your Risk for Cancer.]
Early signs and what to watch for
Cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type but talk to your provider if you notice any new, chronic or unexplained changes in your body.
Recognizing warning signs and acting early can make a big difference. Pay attention to these changes that shouldn’t be ignored:
Digestive or Bowel Changes
- Persistent constipation or diarrhea
- Changes in stool size, shape, color, or consistency
- Blood in your stool or urine
- Persistent indigestion, heartburn, or trouble swallowing
- Ongoing nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
- Abdominal or pelvic pain, pressure, bloating, or cramps that last more than a couple of weeks
Breast or Chest Changes
- A new lump or mass in the breast, chest, or armpit
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Nipple changes such as discharge, retraction, scaling, or crusting
- Skin dimpling, thickening, redness, or swelling that doesn’t go away
Skin Changes
- New or changing moles, freckles, or skin spots
- Sores that don’t heal
- Unusual bleeding, crusting, or scaling
- Persistent patches in the mouth or on lips (white, red, or mixed)
- Lumps or growths under the skin that are new or growing
Testicular or Reproductive Changes
- A lump, swelling, or heaviness in a testicle
- Persistent groin or lower abdomen aching
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex, after menopause)
- Unusual vaginal discharge that is bloody, dark, or foul-smelling
- Pelvic pressure or frequent urination not related to pregnancy or fluid intake
General Warning Signs
- Unexplained weight loss (about 10 pounds or more)
- Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- Persistent pain lasting weeks without a clear cause
- Persistent cough, hoarseness, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Coughing up blood
- Sores or patches in the mouth that bleed, don’t heal, or cause numbness
If something feels off or lasts more than a couple of weeks, see your provider. Always trust your instincts.
Takeaway
Cancer in young adults is becoming more common but awareness, healthy choices and early action can make a difference.
As Dr. Rosso reminds her patients, early detection starts with you. “Don’t ignore any changes and discuss diagnostic screening tests with your provider if something isn’t right.”
You’re never too young to take charge of your health. Schedule an appointment with a Banner Health specialist today.
