Cancer in young adults: a reality we should not ignore
Cancer in young adults represents a relatively small proportion of all cancers (approximately 5% to 10% of new diagnoses worldwide), but it is a disease with particular biological, psychosocial and therapeutic challenges. Its impact is undoubtedly lower compared to those aged >50 years, but a gradual increase in incidence is observed, especially in Western societies.
In Greece the incidence of cancer in young adults is estimated at approximately 7.4 new cases per 100,000 inhabitantseach year. Of particular concern is the increase in colon cancer in people under 40 years of age, with studies in Crete showing an increase of up to 29% between 2001–2011 and predictions for further increases by 2030.
The most common types of cancer in this age group are:
- in women: thyroid, breast, cervical cancer, lymphomas
- in men: testicular tumors, lymphomas and melanoma
- in both sexes lymphomas, sarcomas (bone and soft tissue) and Brain tumors
Genetic predisposition plays an important role in the onset of cancer at a young age in families with rare hereditary syndromes. Also, childhood radiation exposure, exposure to viruses and hormonal influences have been implicated. Factors such as the increase in obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and changes in dietary habits among young people may be responsible for the increase in cancers such as colon cancer.
Early diagnosis of the disease remains a significant challenge. Diagnosis is often delayed, as symptoms are either ignored or misinterpreted, both by young people themselves and by doctors, due to the young age of the patients. Furthermore, access to specialized doctors and diagnostic centers is not always immediate, and there are no universal screening protocols for most types of cancer in these countries. properties.
The therapeutic approach of cancer at a young agedepends on the type, stage and biological behavior of the tumor, but also on thespecial needsof the patient (fertility, social support, professional status). An individualized approach is required from a multidisciplinary team of Oncologists, Psychologists, Nutritionists and other specialists. The main treatment options are:
- Surgery
- Radiotherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted Therapies
- Immunotherapy
The prognosis varies considerably depending on the type of cancer. Many types are curablewith high survival rates (Hodgkin lymphoma, testicular tumorsand certain leukemias), while others (sarcomas, brain tumors) have lower rates.
The main prognostic factors are:
- The stage at diagnosis
- The genetic and molecular identity of the tumor
- Response to treatment
- Socioeconomic factors (insurance, access to specialized units)
What do young adults with cancer face?
In addition to the fight against the disease itself, young patients face unique challenges:
- Interruption of everyday life: studies, work or personal plans are discontinued.
- Psychological pressure: isolation, anxiety about the future and the feeling injustice are often intense.
- Financial difficulties: many do not have a stable income or insurance.
- Uncertainty about fertility or long-term institutional implications: treatment affects many aspects of life. Efforts to preserve fertility, when possible, psychological support and psychotherapy and social support should be an integral part of overall care.
Thanks to advances in medicine, cancer treatments are more effective than ever. Many young adults diagnosed with cancer continue to live, work, create, and have a family. Cancer in young adults, however, is not just a medical issue, and therapeutic practices alone are not enough to address it. You need:
- Focused information and prevention policy
- Accessibility to early diagnosis, specialized oncological centers
- Oncology services adapted to the phase of patients’ lives
- Psychosocial support at all levels (mental health, fertility, work)
- Patient participation in research and clinical studies
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