Recent research indicates that cancers diagnosed in people aged between 18 and 49 in Northern Ireland have risen by 20% over the past 25 years. Queen’s University Belfast and the NI Cancer Registry compared 2019 statistics with 1993 figures, finding that by 2019, 1,076 people aged 18-49 were diagnosed with a type of cancer. Prof. Helen Coleman involved in the research said this is concerning, particularly as the types of cancers are changing, showing a rise in colorectal cancer instead of traditional types like testicular cancer and brain tumours. The research looked at early onset cancers, which means cancers diagnosed in adults under the age of 50.
The study states that cancers commonly seen in older people — such as breast, bowel, stomach, and pancreatic cancers — are now increasingly being diagnosed in younger adults. Prof. Coleman highlighted the need for researchers to better understand the causes — the rise being seen in other western countries suggests it is something to do with changes in the environment and lifestyle. Several theories are associated with this increase, including people eating more processed foods and taking antibiotics from an earlier age.
The most common cancers in men aged between 40 to 49 were colorectal, melanoma, lung, and head cancers. In women aged 40 to 49, the most common malignancies were breast, melanoma, and colorectal cancers. According to Prof. Coleman, patients with early onset cancers face unique challenges across the entire cancer process from investigation and diagnosis through treatment to survivorship or end-of-life care. The study highlights relevant areas for discussion about early onset cancers, including lowering the age of screening.
Prevention and early detection are key to reducing the disease burden and improving cancer outcomes. Healthcare professionals and scientific researchers aim to create treatment pathways for early onset cancers where at each stage patients and their families are given autonomy and support relevant to their individual circumstances. Their concerns need to be addressed, and treatment needs to be evidence-based and innovative. Hope is essential for young cancer patients and their families, stating that everyone must have the opportunity at each stage of the patient journey to contribute to more effective treatments, a better quality of life, living beyond cancer, or meaningful palliative care. It’s crucial to raise awareness and not wait because cancers diagnosed in young adults are becoming increasingly common. Early diagnosis is key
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