Cancer in young adults, which includes those below the age of 40, unfortunately, is not uncommon. According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 70,000 people ages 15 to 39 are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States.

Here we discuss the types of cancer that are more prevalent in young adults.

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women overall, but it is also one of the most common cancers in young adults, particularly women below the age of 30. According to the Susan G.

Komen Foundation, about 5% of breast cancer cases in the United States occur in women under the age of 40. Breast cancer in young women tends to be more aggressive, larger in size, and more likely to have spread to lymph nodes.

Testicular cancer

This type of cancer happens mainly in young and middle-aged men. According to the American Cancer Society, testicular cancer is the most common cancer in males between the ages of 15 and 35.

Testicular cancer is highly curable, with a survival rate of over 95% in early stages, but it is still important to get regular check-ups and screenings.

Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which is a part of the immune system that helps fight infection. Lymphoma is one of the most common cancers among young adults, with the incidence rates increasing among young adults since the 1970s.

There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma is more common in young adults. Symptoms of lymphoma can include swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

Leukemia

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow and is most commonly diagnosed in adults over 65. However, it can also occur in young adults, with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) being the most common type of leukemia in this age group.

Symptoms of leukemia can include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, and easy bruising or bleeding.

Skin cancer

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning beds is the leading cause of skin cancer. Skin cancer can occur at any age, but it is more common in older adults.

However, young adults are also at risk, particularly those who have had severe sunburns, have fair skin, or have a family history of skin cancer. The two most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, but melanoma, the deadliest form, can also affect young adults.

Colon cancer

Colon cancer is typically seen in adults over the age of 50. However, there has been an increase in the incidence of colon cancer among young adults.

According to the American Cancer Society, the incidence of colon cancer in adults under the age of 50 has increased by 2% per year since the mid-90s. Symptoms of colon cancer can include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, and abdominal pain.

Thyroid cancer

The thyroid gland is located in the neck and produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Thyroid cancer is a rare type of cancer that is more common in young adults than in older adults.

According to the American Thyroid Association, between one-third and one-half of thyroid cancers occur in people under the age of 50. Symptoms of thyroid cancer can include a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, and changes in voice.

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is a relatively rare cancer, but it can affect young adults. According to the American Cancer Society, about 3% of ovarian cancers occur in women under the age of 40.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer can include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, and feeling full quickly while eating.

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is often considered a disease of older adults, but it can also affect young adults, particularly those with a family history of the disease.

According to the American Cancer Society, about 2% of pancreatic cancer cases occur in people under the age of 40. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can include abdominal pain, back pain, and jaundice.

Brain cancer

Brain cancer can occur at any age, but certain types of brain cancer are more common in young adults. For example, medulloblastoma is a type of brain cancer that is primarily seen in children and young adults.

Symptoms of brain cancer can depend on the location of the tumor and can include headaches, seizures, and changes in vision or hearing.

Conclusion

Cancer is a devastating disease that can affect people of all ages, but it is particularly difficult when it strikes young adults.

The types of cancer that are more prevalent in young adults can vary, but breast cancer, testicular cancer, lymphoma, leukemia, skin cancer, colon cancer, thyroid cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, and brain cancer are among the most common. As with all cancers, early detection is crucial for successful treatment and survival.