Increasing Cancer Rates Among Younger Adults: Why Is It a Concern?

Cancer is often seen as a disease that affects older people.. Today doctors and researchers are paying closer attention to the number of cancer cases being found in younger adults.

Some types of cancer including breast and bowel cancer are being identified often in younger age groups in several countries.

Can Young Adults Get Cancer?

Yes. Cancer can affect people at any age including those in their 20s, 30s and 40s.

Some cancers seen in adults include:

• Breast cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Testicular cancer

Lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the bodys defence system

Why Are Cancer Cases Increasing Among Younger Adults?

There is no answer. Researchers are studying possible reasons.

1. Changes in Daily Habits

Eating a diet that has many processed foods and not enough fruits, vegetables and whole grains along with not being active enough can hurt overall health. Being overweight has also been connected to a chance of some cancers.

Smoking is a reason for several cancers, including lung, mouth and throat cancer. Drinking alcohol can also raise the chance of cancers, including breast, liver and bowel cancer.

Choosing to live healthier, such, as eating meals being active staying at a healthy weight not using tobacco and limiting or not drinking alcohol can help reduce the chance of some cancers.

However these factors do not explain every case and many cancers in people have no clear cause.

2. Family History

Some people inherit changes in their genes from their parents that can make them more likely to develop certain types of cancer.

If several close family members have had cancer at a young age tell your doctor. They can help you understand whether you need checks.

IMPORTANT SIGNS TO LOOK OUT FOR:

Young adults may ignore certain symptoms because they think they are too young to get cancer.

Pay attention to changes such as:

• A lump in the breast or another part of the body
• Blood in your stool or urine
• Changes in your bowel habits that do not go away
• Unusual bleeding
• A cough that continues for a long time
• A wound that does not heal
• Unexplained weight loss
• Ongoing tiredness without a clear reason
• Pain that continues or keeps coming back

These symptoms do not always mean cancer. If a symptom continues, gets worse or feels unusual for you consult a doctor.

Can Cancer Be Found Early in Young Adults?

Yes. Some cancers can be found through screening or by checking symptoms promptly.

There is no one test that can detect all types of cancer, and not everyone needs regular screening for every type of cancer.

Your doctor can guide you based on your age, family history and personal risk.

Do not wait for symptoms to become severe before seeking advice. Finding the cause of a change early can help you get the care you need.

How To Lower Your Cancer Risk?

You cannot prevent every cancer. Some everyday steps can lower the risk of certain types.

• Avoid tobacco and smoking
• Limit or avoid alcohol.
• Eat a diet with fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Stay physically active.
• Protect your skin from much sun exposure.
• HPV vaccination
• Follow the screening advice that’s right for you.

Why Choose MGM Cancer Institute?

At MGM Cancer Institute, Chennai we believe that awareness, timely medical advice and compassionate care are steps in the fight against cancer.

Our team of cancer specialists works across areas of cancer care to help patients understand their symptoms get the tests they need and explore suitable treatment options.

If you have noticed a change in your body have concerns about your family history or need guidance, on cancer screening our specialists can help you understand the next steps.

At MGM Cancer Institute We Cure Fear First.

Do not let your age make you ignore a health concern. Speak to a doctor if something does not feel good.

DOCTOR DETAILS:

Dr. Syed Ismail Nawab John

Clinical Lead and Senior Consultant

Medical Oncology