Cancer in Young Adults: Rising Cases & Concerns

• On average, 340 men and 620 women under 40 were diagnosed with cancer annually between 2017 and 2021.
• Cancer diagnosed before age 50 rose by 90% between 1988-1992 and 2018-2022.

• Cancer in people under 50 increased by 79% between 1990 and 2019.
• 20 million cases in 2022 compared to 18 million in 2020.
• Over 35 million cases are projected for 2050.

• Rising obesity rates
• Diets high in processed and refined foods
• Sedentary lifestyles and chronic stress
• Increased alcohol consumption
• Exposure to environmental pollutants

The World Health Organization estimates that 30% to 50% of cancer cases can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices.

• Unexplained weight loss, such as losing over 5kg without changes to diet or exercise.
• Unusual bleeding or discharge, such as black stools or bloody nipple discharge.
• Lumps or thickening found in the breasts, testicles or lymph nodes.
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as persistent diarrhoea or pain when urinating.
• Persistent cough or hoarseness could indicate lung or throat cancer.
• Recurring indigestion or difficulty swallowing may be signs of stomach or oesophageal cancer.
• Changes in moles or warts, such as alterations in shape, size or colour.
• Sores that do not heal should be examined by a doctor.

9 in 10 with certain early-stage cancers, like breast, prostate and thyroid, survive at least five years after diagnosis.

“The rising incidence of cancer in adults under 50 is deeply concerning, pointing to not only earlier diagnoses but potential new risk factors linked to modern lifestyles, environmental exposures and genetics. As oncologists, our goal is not just to treat, but to understand and address these trends to protect future generations.”

Take charge of your health: regular screenings and prompt medical attention can save lives.

Sources: BMJ Oncology, CNN, National Registry of Diseases Office, The Straits Times, World Health Organization