By Kailee Webb
In 2023, at 34 years old and after having her first child, Magen’s life took an unexpected turn when she discovered a lump during a self-check. What began as a precaution quickly escalated—her doctor confirmed it was breast cancer, and further imaging revealed it had already progressed to stage 4. Like many young adults, Magen never imagined she would face such a diagnosis so early in life.
Magen is not alone. Her story reflects a growing and deeply concerning trend in early-onset cancers among young adults.
Cancers once considered rare in young people are now on the rise. Early-onset cancers—defined as cancers diagnosed under age 50—have increased dramatically in the last decade. A global study published in BMJ Oncology found that from 2010 to 2019, the incidence of early-onset cancers rose by 79%, while related deaths increased by 27%. These increases include cancers such as breast, colorectal, pancreatic, uterine, and kidney cancers, with the steepest rise among individuals aged 20 to 29.
What are Contributing Factors?
The reasons behind the increase is not yet fully understood. However, researchers are seeing that a combination of lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors are playing a significant role.
Diet and Lifestyle: Increased consumption of ultra-processed foods, high sugar intake, and low fiber—combined with sedentary habits—have raised obesity rates in younger populations. According to the American Cancer Society, obesity is linked to at least 13 different types of cancer.
Environmental Exposure: Exposure to air pollution, contaminated water, UV radiation, and pesticides all increase cancer risk. A less discussed issue is the impact of consumerism. Young adults in particular are focused on a consumer-driven lifestyle which increases their exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These are often found in fast food packaging, cosmetics, plastics, and non-stick cookware and are of growing concern. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences has researched how EDCs interfere with hormone systems, potentially leading to the development of cancer over time.
Genetic and Intergenerational Risk: Genetic mutations, such as those in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, are well-established risk factors for cancer. Studies, such as those by Skinner in Nature Reviews Endocrinology, shows that environmental exposures experienced by parents and grandparents can also affect the health of future generations.
Unique Challenges of Young Adults with Cancer
Cancer in young adults is often missed or misdiagnosed. Because symptoms like fatigue, pain, or changes in digestion can be attributed to stress or lifestyle, many young adults do not receive timely screenings or evaluations.
Compounding the issue, many young adults are uninsured or underinsured, delaying access to treatment. They are also underrepresented in clinical trials, which limits evidence-based care for this age group. Studies show survival rates in young adults have improved much less than in children or older adults (National Cancer Institute).
In addition, cancer treatment can have a major impact on fertility, a devastating consideration for young adults who wish to have or grow their families. Access to fertility preservation options is often limited by time, cost, or lack of information, making this an urgent and frequently overlooked part of care planning.
How Naples Cancer Advisors Can Help
Cancer doesn’t just impact physical health it also impacts mental health, careers, relationships, fertility, finances, etc. Many young adults struggle with navigating a healthcare system that isn’t always equipped for their unique needs. Magen’s journey reflects this struggle, as she, like many others, battles cancer while trying to find a treatment that works for her.
Organizations like Naples Cancer Advisors offer a lifeline to patients like Magen. By providing no-cost services such as second opinions, clinical trial access, genetic counseling, and financial navigation, they ensure patients receive expert guidance—regardless of age, income, or insurance status. Their team helps young adults access the resources and support they need to make informed decisions, explore personalized treatments, and feel less overwhelmed by the process of managing cancer care
Taking Control: What You Can Do
While not all cancers are preventable, there are steps young adults can take to reduce their risk. The CDC, U.S. Preventive Service Tasks Force, and other healthcare organizations are great resources that provide proactive steps you can take such as:
. Get screened early if you have a family history
. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly
. Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
. Use sunscreen
. Pay attention to persistent or unexplained symptoms
While social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok contribute to consumer habits, they have also played a role in increasing awareness for young adults. Young adults are using their platforms to empower others to prioritize their physical and mental wellbeing. These platforms are being used to discuss and promote lifestyle choices that may reduce their risk for cancer. Since 2024, more young adults are joining gyms, consistently exercising, limiting their alcohol consumption, and prioritizing foods that are rich in nutrients.
The rise in cancer among young adults is a complex and deeply personal challenge. But through greater awareness, earlier detection, and improved access to care, we can change the course of this crisis. Magen’s story reminds us that cancer can happen at any age, but with support, advocacy, and expert resources, young adults don’t have to face it alone.
About Kailee Webb
Kailee Webb is a student at The Ohio State University pursuing a Master’s in Public Health. She is passionate about advancing health equity and cancer care access. She holds a B.S. in Medical Sciences from the University of Cincinnati, where she was a student researcher for the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center and earned various honors for academic excellence and leadership. Kailee currently interns with Dr. Lana Uhrig at Naples Cancer Advisors, a second location of the Cincinnati Cancer Foundation. She also volunteers with RIDE Cincinnati and has previously contributed to grassroots public health and policy initiatives focused on underserved populations.
In addition to her public health work, Kailee is a Proposal Coordinator at Woolpert, an architecture, engineering, and geospatial firm, where she supports the Infrastructure market which includes transportation, water, and aviation sectors. Her unique blend of healthcare, nonprofit, and infrastructure experience fuels her mission to advocate for healthier, more resilient communities.
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