Cancer in your 20s, 30s, or 40s? It’s a terrifying thought, but it’s a reality that’s becoming harder to ignore. Here’s the alarming part: The National Cancer Institute estimates that by 2025, 4.2% of all new cancer cases will strike individuals aged 15 to 39. That’s a staggering 85,480 young adults facing a diagnosis, with breast and thyroid cancers each accounting for 15% of cases and other types making up the remaining 55%. But here’s where it gets even more concerning: cancer isn’t just becoming more common in this age group—it’s also becoming deadlier. Research is increasingly pointing to lifestyle choices and environmental factors, alongside genetics, as key contributors. The good news? We have some control over those first two.
Experts are urging young adults to take action now. ‘We’re building healthy habits to keep trouble at bay over time,’ says Arif Kamal, chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society. ‘Investing in a healthier future means changing how we live in our 20s and 30s.’ So, what can you do to lower your risk? Let’s dive into four evidence-based strategies—and this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about avoiding bad habits, but actively building good ones.
1. Prioritize Your Health
It’s no secret that lifestyle plays a massive role in cancer risk. According to the American Association for Cancer Research, nearly 40% of cancer cases in the U.S. are linked to modifiable factors like weight, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Take breast cancer, for example. While family history and hormonal changes are significant, obesity and excessive drinking can further elevate the risk, explains Ann Partridge, a leading expert at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Similarly, obesity is a red flag for gastrointestinal cancers, warns Kimmie Ng, director of the Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center. The solution? Regular physical activity, a nutrient-dense diet, and cutting back on alcohol are non-negotiable.
2. Know Your Family and Personal History
Your family tree could hold clues to your cancer risk. If relatives were diagnosed with cancer at a young age, your screening timeline might need to start earlier. ‘For colorectal cancer, a family history of the disease or advanced polyps could mean you qualify for screening before age 45—potentially saving your life,’ Ng emphasizes. Genetic testing and resources like The American Cancer Society’s guidelines can help you navigate this. Personal history matters too. Early menstruation or delayed menopause, for instance, can increase breast cancer risk. Knowing these details could be a game-changer.
3. Don’t Dismiss Symptoms
Persistent lumps, unexplained bleeding, or unusual changes in your body? Don’t brush them off. ‘Twenty years ago, we might’ve dismissed rectal bleeding as harmless, but today, it’s a sign that warrants immediate attention,’ Kamal notes. Blood in the stool, abdominal pain, weight loss, and anemia could all point to colorectal cancer. Early detection is key—ignoring symptoms could mean missing a critical window for treatment.
4. Stay Informed and Proactive
Here’s a sobering fact: young adults are not only being diagnosed with cancer more frequently, but they’re also presenting with more advanced, harder-to-treat cases. Why? Lack of awareness. Many young people don’t realize cancer can happen to them, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes. If something feels off, advocate for screenings or tests. Knowledge is power—and in this case, it could save your life.
But here’s the controversial part: While experts agree on these steps, not everyone agrees on how aggressively young adults should pursue screenings or lifestyle changes. Some argue that over-screening could lead to unnecessary anxiety or procedures. What do you think? Are we doing enough to educate and protect young adults, or are we overreacting? Let’s start the conversation in the comments.
Note: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
