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Cancers in young adults, more precisely in the 15-39 age range, are drawing growing attention. A recent study, conducted over twenty years (2000-2020) in 19 French departments, offers an unprecedented overview. It sheds light on the incidence and trends of various types of tumors. The findings, resulting from collaboration between the Francim network, the Hospices Civils de Lyon, Public Health France, and the National Cancer Institute, reveal multiple trends, ranging from stabilization to a marked increase in certain cancers. Discover the key takeaways from this research in this article, as well as the suspected risk factors. In addition, the importance of early screening is emphasized to improve care.
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 shows the urgency of understanding precisely the tumors affecting this age group. The results made it possible to draw a detailed map of the situation. In addition, they highlight the specificities of each age group.
Cancers More Common in 15-19-Year-Olds
- Leukemias
- Lymphomas
- Central nervous system tumors
Cancers Dominant 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 among 35-39-year-olds. By contrast, they account for less than 3% among 20-25-year-olds. These data confirm the importance of adapting prevention and screening according to age.
Upward and Downward Trends: Where Do We Stand?
Overall Stabilization Since 2015
Some encouraging news: the number of new cancer cases among young adults increased until 2015. However, it now appears to be stabilizing. This lull could indicate the positive effect of awareness and prevention campaigns. In addition, improved screening techniques and care are also contributing.
Marked Decline in Certain Cancers
The decrease in certain skin cancers, notably melanomas, of about 3% per year since 2010 is encouraging. Moreover, it represents another positive sign. This decline may be linked to greater awareness of the dangers of excessive sun exposure. In addition, the use of protective measures such as sunscreen and covering clothing from childhood plays a role.
Six Types of Cancers Rising Sharply
Despite these encouraging trends, the study highlights a significant increase in six cancers among 15-39-year-olds:
- Colorectal cancers: +1.4% per year
- Breast cancers: +1.6% per year
- Kidney cancers: +4.5% per year
- Hodgkin lymphomas: +1.9% per year
- Glioblastomas (aggressive brain cancers): +6.1% per year
- Liposarcomas (rare soft tissue cancers): +3.7% per year
Among these tumors, liposarcomas remain relatively uncommon, but their growth is concerning. Obesity is seriously being 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 Define Risk Factors
The origins of these cancers on the rise among young adults remain unclear. Several possibilities are being considered:
- Environmental factors (exposure to chemical substances, pollution, etc.)
- Lifestyle (obesity, sedentary behavior, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking)
- Genetic predispositions (heredity, specific genetic mutations)
To make progress, researchers stress the importance of strengthening epidemiological research and the monitoring of at-risk populations. Identifying and understanding the mechanisms at work will make it possible to better adapt and target prevention programs.
Stay Alert: Recognize Symptoms and Seek Care Early
Signs Not to Overlook
- Breast cancer: discovery of a hard lump that persists or grows, even if painless.
- Colorectal cancer: presence of blood in the stool, persistent bowel habit changes.
- Other unusual symptoms: persistent pain, unexplained fatigue, rapid weight loss, severe and repeated headaches, etc.
Dr. David Deutsch, a digestive oncologist at Institut Curie, emphasizes that any new symptom should lead to a consultation with a healthcare professional. Likewise, oncologist Jean-Yves Blay reminds us not to fall into anxiety, since many benign conditions can present similar signs.
The Importance of Appropriate Screening
For certain tumors (breast, cervix, colon, etc.), screening programs exist. As a result, they make it possible to quickly detect 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:
- Better identify the risk factors specific to young adults.
- Deploy targeted prevention strategies, focused in particular on lifestyle (balanced diet, regular exercise, sun protection).
- Raise awareness in this age group about the warning signs of cancer and the importance of seeking care quickly if in doubt.
- Support research to determine the exact causes of the increase in certain cancers (colorectal, breast, kidney, Hodgkin 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 prevention and screening, some cancers are still increasing. As a result, this serves as a reminder of the importance of continuing research and awareness efforts. Every individual must pay attention to their body’s signals. In addition, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential. Seeking care quickly when unusual symptoms appear remains one of the best weapons for fighting these diseases.