Erick Mahatara: Cancer in Young Adults – Prevalence, Mortality, and Interventions
Erick Mahatara, Ambassador and Scholar at Cancer Fight Tanzania, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Cancer in Young Adults (Ages 15-39): Prevalence, Mortality, and Interventions.
Cancer among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) is a growing concern, with approximately 84,100 new cases were expected by 2024, making up 4.2% of all U.S. cancer diagnoses. The five-year survival rate is 85.9%, but certain cancers still pose significant risks.
Most Common Cancers in AYAs:
- Breast Cancer (15%)
- Thyroid Cancer (15%)
- Testicular Cancer (8%)
- Melanoma (7%)
Previous studies have showed that, by the year 2024, an estimation of 8,890 AYAs would have died of cancer (1.5% of total cancer deaths).
Leading causes include:
- Breast Cancer (13%)
- Brain & Nervous System Cancers (11%)
- Colorectal Cancer (11%)
- Leukemia (10%)
Challenges and Research Gaps:
1. Delayed Diagnosis.
Symptoms are often mistaken for common illnesses, leading to late-stage detection.
2. Unique Cancer Biology.
Some cancers in AYAs, like colorectal cancer, behave more aggressively than in older adults.
3. Lifestyle & Environmental Risks.
Poor diets, sedentary lifestyles, and potential environmental factors (e.g., microplastics) may increase cancer risk.
Recommendations for Reducing Cancer Risk:
✔ Early Screening & Awareness: Lowering the screening age for high-risk cancers (e.g., colorectal) and increasing awareness of early symptoms.
✔ Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Encouraging balanced diets, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcohol to reduce risk.
✔ Genetic Testing & Counseling: Identifying hereditary cancer risks early for preventive care.
✔ Stronger Research & Data Collection: More studies are needed to understand how biological and environmental factors influence cancer in AYAs.
By improving early detection, promoting healthier lifestyles, and investing in research, we can reduce cancer’s impact on young adults.”
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