Life is meant to end but not in your 20s, 30s and 40s. Sadly, this is what has the experts in fear for the lives of youngsters across the world. According to the National Cancer Institute’s estimates for 2025, 4.2% of all new cancer cases will occur among those aged 15 to 39. The estimated number of new cases among these young adults is a shocking 85,480 with breast and thyroid cancer accounting for 15% each of the cases and 55% being others.While it is already worrying to see the rise in cancer cases among young adults, what has experts in a tough spot is that the disease is leading to more deaths. A growing body of research has now figured out how lifestyle choices and environmental exposures, along with genetics contribute to the disease and that the former two can be controlled to some degree.
According to experts, making changes in your life is definitely the way to go forward. “What we’re trying to do is build the healthy habits to keep trouble away over time, and you can do that now to invest in a future with less cancer in it,” said Arif Kamal, chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society to The Washington Post.“The only way we’re going to continue to bend the curve of the number of people getting diagnosed with cancer is really going to be changing how we live in our 20s and 30s,” he added.Here’s what experts say you should do to prevent or deal with cancers that are rising among young people, including breast and colorectal cancer.
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According to the American Association for Cancer Research, about 40% of the cancer cases in the United States are associated with modifiable risk factors such as weight, alcohol consumption and smoking.While breast cancer is associated with family history and hormonal changes, obesity and drinking can increase its risk, said Ann Partridge, co-founder and director of the young adults with breast cancer program at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston to The Post. Obesity is also a common risk factor for gastrointestinal cancers, as per Kimmie Ng, director of the Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.The American Cancer Society suggests ensuring regular physical activity, eating a consistent and balanced nutrient-dense diet and avoiding alcohol.
Be aware of your family and personal history
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One of the most vital pieces of information you must have as you age is your family and personal history. If people in your family were diagnosed with cancer at a young age, then the eligible age of screening for you might be different.“For colorectal cancer, if there is a family history of that cancer type or even an advanced polyp in your family members, a person can qualify for earlier screening than age 45,” Ng said. “That could be potentially lifesaving.”People can head for genetic testing and can also refer to The American Cancer Society’s guide to know when to consider tests.Personal history is also just as important. Breast cancer risks for instance can be higher if you get your periods earlier and experience a delay in the onset of menopause.
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According to experts, any abnormalities such as lumps, bumps, bleeding, bruising and more that persist and worsen over time should prompt a doctor’s visit. “While 20 years ago, we would have said rectal bleeding is just an innocent haemorrhoid, don’t worry about it, today we should not say that anymore,” said Kamal. Now, rectal bleeding or blood in the stool requires a test, as they are signs of colorectal cancer along with abdominal pain, weight loss, anaemia, changes in bowel habits and more.
Know your health
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According to doctors, not only are more young people being diagnosed with cancer, but they are also coming in with more advanced and difficult-to-treat cases. Here, the situation worsens with a lack of awareness among youngsters that they can have cancer. This leads to lower survival rates and poor outcomes. If you notice symptoms of the disease, pushing for screenings or tests is important.Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment.