Multiplication of Cancers Among 15-39 Year Olds – Focus on a Groundbreaking French Study

Cancers in young adults, specifically in the age group of 15-39 years, are attracting increasing attention. A recent study, conducted over twenty years (2000-2020) in 19 French departments, offers an unprecedented insight. Indeed, it highlights the incidence and evolution of various types of tumors. The results, stemming from the collaboration between the Francim network, the Hospices Civils de Lyon, Santé publique France, and the National Cancer Institute, reveal multiple trends, ranging from stabilization to marked progression of certain cancers. Discover the key points of this research in this article, as well as the suspected risk factors. Moreover, the importance of early screening is emphasized to improve management.

Mapping: nearly 55,000 young people diagnosed in 20 years

According to this study, 55,000 adolescents and young adults were diagnosed with cancer between 2000 and 2020. This represents nearly 24% of the French population. This significant volume demonstrates the urgency of precisely understanding the tumors affecting this age group. The results have allowed for a detailed mapping of the situation. Additionally, they highlight the specificities of each age group.

More frequent cancers in 15-19 year-olds

• Leukemias
• Lymphomas
• Central nervous system tumors

Dominant cancers in 20-39 year-olds

• Breast cancers
• Colon and rectal cancers
• Cervical cancer
• Kidney cancer

For example, breast tumors account for more than a quarter of diagnoses in 35-39 year-olds. In contrast, they represent less than 3% in 20-25 year-olds. These data confirm the importance of adapting prevention and screening according to age.

Trends on the rise and fall: where do we stand?

Overall stabilization since 2015

An encouraging news: the number of new cancer cases in young adults increased until 2015. However, it seems to have stabilized since then. This lull could indicate the positive effect of awareness and prevention campaigns. Additionally, the improvement of screening techniques and management also contributes to this.

Marked decrease in certain cancers

The decrease in certain skin cancers, notably melanomas, by about 3% per year since 2010 is encouraging. Furthermore, this represents another positive signal. This decline could be linked to increased awareness of the dangers of excessive sun exposure. Moreover, the application of protective measures such as sunscreen and covering clothing from childhood contributes to this.

Six types of cancers in strong progression

Despite these encouraging trends, the study highlights a significant increase in six cancers among 15-39 year-olds:

1. Colorectal cancers: +1.4% per year
2. Breast cancers: +1.6% per year
3. Kidney cancers: +4.5% per year
4. Hodgkin’s lymphomas: +1.9% per year
5. Glioblastomas (aggressive brain cancers): +6.1% per year
6. Liposarcomas (rare soft tissue cancers): +3.7% per year

Among these tumors, liposarcomas remain relatively rare, but their progression is concerning. Obesity is seriously considered to explain the increase in digestive and kidney cancers. However, other environmental or genetic risk factors are not ruled out.

Causes: the need to better identify risk factors

The origins of these rising cancers in young adults remain unclear. Several avenues are suggested:

• Environmental factors (exposure to chemicals, pollution, etc.)
• Lifestyle (obesity, sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking)
• Genetic predispositions (heredity, specific genetic mutations)

To make progress, researchers emphasize the importance of strengthening epidemiological research and monitoring at-risk populations. Identifying and understanding the mechanisms at work will allow for more precise targeting of prevention programs.

Vigilance: recognizing symptoms and consulting early

Signs not to be overlooked

• Breast cancer: discovery of a hard, persistent, or growing mass, even if painless.
• Colorectal cancer: presence of blood in the stool, persistent intestinal transit disorders.
• Other unusual symptoms: persistent pain, unexplained fatigue, rapid weight loss, severe and repeated headaches, etc.

Dr. David Deutsch, a digestive oncologist at the Institut Curie, insists that any new symptom should lead to consulting a healthcare professional. Similarly, oncologist Jean-Yves Blay reminds that one should not fall into anxiety, as many benign pathologies can present similar signs.

The importance of appropriate screening

For certain tumors (breast, cervix, colon…), screening programs exist. Thus, they allow for the rapid detection of precancerous lesions or cancers at an early stage. The earlier the diagnosis, the better the chances of effective treatment.

Strengthening prevention and research

This national study highlights the need to:

1. Better identify risk factors specific to young adults.
2. Deploy targeted prevention strategies, particularly focused on lifestyle (balanced diet, regular exercise, sun protection).
3. Raise awareness in this age group about the warning signs of cancer and the importance of consulting quickly in case of doubt.
4. Support research to determine the exact causes of the increase in certain cancers (colorectal, breast, kidney, Hodgkin’s lymphomas, glioblastomas, liposarcomas).

A major public health issue

Cancers in 15-39 year-olds represent a major issue for public health. Although notable progress has been made in terms of prevention and screening, some cancers are still progressing. Consequently, this underscores the importance of continuing research and awareness efforts. Each individual must be attentive to their body’s signals. Moreover, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential. Consulting quickly in case of unusual symptoms remains one of the best weapons to fight against these diseases.