Cancer is a disease where cells in the body grow abnormally and uncontrollably. It can occur in anyone, regardless of age or gender. However, certain types of cancer are more common in young adults, between the ages of 20 and 39.

In this article, we will explore the most common types of cancer in young adults.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in young women. It occurs when the cells in the breast grow abnormally and uncontrollably.

About 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives, and it is more likely to occur in women who have a family history of the disease.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer in young adults. It occurs when the cells in the lung grow abnormally and uncontrollably.

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and young adults who smoke are at a higher risk of developing the disease.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in young adults. It occurs when the cells in the colon or rectum grow abnormally and uncontrollably.

Risk factors for colorectal cancer include a family history of the disease, a diet high in red meat and processed foods, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is the most common type of cancer in young men. It occurs when the cells in the testicles grow abnormally and uncontrollably.

Risk factors for testicular cancer include a family history of the disease, undescended testicles, and HIV infection.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer in young adults. It occurs when the cells in the thyroid gland grow abnormally and uncontrollably.

Risk factors for thyroid cancer include a family history of the disease, exposure to radiation, and a diet low in iodine.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that occurs when the cells in the skin grow abnormally and uncontrollably. It is the most deadly form of skin cancer and can occur in young adults who have had a lot of sun exposure or use tanning beds.

Leukemia

Leukemia is a type of cancer that occurs when the cells in the bone marrow grow abnormally and uncontrollably. It is more common in children and older adults, but can also occur in young adults.

Risk factors for leukemia include exposure to radiation and certain chemicals.

Hodgkin Lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that occurs when the cells in the lymph system grow abnormally and uncontrollably. It is more common in young adults than other types of lymphoma.

Risk factors for Hodgkin lymphoma include a weak immune system and exposure to the Epstein-Barr virus.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that occurs when the cells in the lymph system grow abnormally and uncontrollably. It is more common in older adults, but can also occur in young adults.

Risk factors for non-Hodgkin lymphoma include a weak immune system and exposure to certain chemicals.

Brain Cancer

Brain cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when the cells in the brain grow abnormally and uncontrollably. It is more common in older adults, but can also occur in young adults.

Risk factors for brain cancer include exposure to radiation and certain chemicals.