Rising Cancer Rates Among Young Adults Raise Alarms as Overall Rates Decline in Older Adults

For many years, cancer was primarily considered a disease affecting people over 50. However, recent data suggests this may no longer be the case.

A study analyzing data from 2010 to 2019 found that while overall cancer rates are dropping in adults over 50, certain types of cancer are increasing among adolescents and young adults aged 15-39. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), cancer rates in this younger age group, known as early-onset cancers, have risen by 3% annually during this period, from 100 to 103 cases per 100,000 people. Cancer rates in younger women rose by 0.67% each year, while rates among men decreased slightly by 0.37% annually.

The most common cancers affecting young adults include breast, colorectal, appendix, pancreas, kidney, and reproductive organ cancers. While breast cancer is the most prevalent, gastrointestinal cancers, such as colon and appendix cancer, had the fastest-growing rate, increasing by 15%.

Factors Contributing to Rising Cancer Rates

There are several potential reasons behind the rise in cancer among younger adults. As Dr. Thomas Buchholz, medical director at Scripps Cancer Center, notes: “We don’t know why cancer rates among young adults are rising, or why women are seeing an increase more than men, but we believe lifestyle and environmental factors most likely contribute.”

Here are some of the factors that researchers believe may be contributing to the rise in early-onset cancer:

• Lifestyle Choices: Poor diet, lack of regular physical activity, consumption of processed and sugary foods (such as energy drinks and specialty coffees), and higher obesity rates are known risk factors for several cancers, including colon cancer. Inadequate sleep may also play a role.
• Alcohol Use: The NCI reports that long-term, regular alcohol consumption raises the risk of alcohol-associated cancers like breast, colon, liver, and head and neck cancers. Even modest drinking — one drink per day — can increase cancer risk. Binge drinking is particularly harmful, with four or more drinks for women and five or more drinks for men in one sitting raising cancer risk.
• Environmental Toxins: Another possible factor is increased exposure to environmental toxins in the air, water, and food supply. Reducing exposure to pollutants and consuming foods rich in antioxidants may help counter some of these harmful effects.
• Genetics: Some young adults carry genetic mutations that increase their susceptibility to certain cancers. Understanding your family history and undergoing genetic testing can help identify those at higher risk for cancers like breast and colon cancer. Early screening can then be considered.

Preventive Cancer Screenings for Early Detection

Due to the rising rates of colon cancer among younger adults, the American Cancer Society has lowered the recommended age to begin colorectal cancer screenings from 50 to 45 for those at average risk. People with a family history of colon cancer may need to start screening even earlier, based on their doctor’s recommendation.

While the increasing rates of cancer in young adults are concerning, Dr. Buchholz advises patients to focus on a proactive approach. “The best course of action for people at any age is to eat a healthy diet high in fruits, vegetables, and natural fiber, minimize processed foods and sugar, and be physically active,” he says. “Maintain a healthy weight, get recommended cancer screenings, and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns.”