It’s a sobering reality: cancer rates in young women are rising, and the increase is both rapid and alarming. Since 1990, global cases of early-onset cancer—those diagnosed in individuals under 50—have surged by nearly 80 percent. According to research published in BMJ Oncology, that number is expected to grow by another 31 percent by 2030. One of the most striking details is that women under 50 now face an 82 percent higher cancer rate than men in the same age group, up from 51 percent in 2002, as reported by the American Cancer Society. This shift has prompted oncologists and public health experts to rethink assumptions about who is at risk—and what can be done about it.

Stories like that of Krystle Harris, diagnosed with stage III breast cancer at 28 and later metastatic thyroid cancer before turning 33, are becoming more common. The article from Women’s Health outlines several such cases, many involving women in their 20s and 30s who were otherwise healthy, active, and without a family history of cancer. These stories underscore a troubling pattern: young people are often diagnosed late, not because they ignore symptoms, but because neither they nor their doctors suspect cancer in someone so young.

Part of the problem lies in the current screening guidelines. Most routine cancer screenings begin at age 40 or later. For example, mammograms are recommended between ages 40 and 45 for those at average risk, and colorectal screenings typically start at 45. These thresholds are based in part on healthcare resource demands and the limitations of screening technologies in younger populations. For instance, mammograms are less effective in younger women due to denser breast tissue, making early detection more difficult.

As a result, many young adults are diagnosed only after symptoms become severe. Colon and rectal cancers are seeing the fastest rate increases, followed by uterine, leukemia, kidney, and breast cancers. These cancers also tend to be more aggressive in younger patients. One case described in the article involves Jenna Putala, who endured years of unexplained health issues before an MRI finally revealed a rare pelvic tumor. Her experience highlights the importance of persistence in seeking answers and the limitations of current diagnostic practices.

The rise in early-onset cancer has led researchers to examine potential causes, though no single explanation has emerged. Diet is a major area of focus. Ultra-processed foods now make up more than half of the American diet, and their early and frequent consumption may be contributing to cancer development. These foods can disrupt the gut microbiome, increase inflammation, and affect insulin levels—all factors associated with cancer risk.

Obesity is another well-documented risk factor. According to the World Health Organization, adult obesity has doubled and childhood obesity has quadrupled since 1990. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has linked obesity to at least 13 types of cancer. Experts believe that excess body weight can lead to chronic inflammation and hormonal imbalances, both of which may increase cancer susceptibility.

Physical inactivity may also play a role. Globally, one-third of adults did not meet recommended activity levels in 2022, a figure that has grown since 2010. While exercise alone won't prevent all cancers, it does help regulate inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and body composition—all of which are linked to cancer risk.

Despite these concerning trends, oncologists emphasize that early-onset cancer is still relatively rare. About 103 out of every 100,000 individuals under 50 are diagnosed, according to a study in JAMA Network Open. Rather than panic, experts recommend a proactive approach that includes lifestyle choices and awareness of personal risk factors.

Basic preventive measures remain essential. Eating a diet rich in whole foods, staying physically active, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and protecting skin from UV exposure are all steps that can reduce cancer risk. Vaccinations, especially for HPV, are also important in preventing certain cancers.

Paying attention to symptoms is critical. Unexplained lumps, changes in bowel habits, persistent fatigue, or unusual bleeding should not be ignored. As Dr. Veda Giri from Yale Cancer Center advises, even seemingly minor or embarrassing symptoms should be brought to a doctor’s attention. Krystle Harris’s thyroid cancer was discovered only because she mentioned a swollen, itchy throat during a routine visit—something she now says she wouldn’t hesitate to report again.

Understanding personal risk can also guide early action. Tools like the Tyrer-Cuzick Risk Assessment Calculator or Dana-Farber’s Assess Your Risk can help individuals estimate their likelihood of developing certain cancers. These tools consider family history and other factors. For Alison Hall, using one of these calculators led to early screenings that detected breast cancer at its earliest stage, allowing for more treatment options and better outcomes.

Gathering family medical history can be challenging, but it’s a valuable part of assessing risk. Conversations with relatives can reveal patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. If detailed family history isn’t available, doctors can still work with limited information, and in some cases, genetic testing may be appropriate. However, experts caution that home DNA tests don’t provide reliable cancer risk assessments and should not replace clinical evaluations.

Ultimately, the rising incidence of cancer in young women is a call to action for both individuals and the medical community. It challenges outdated assumptions about age and risk and highlights the need for vigilance, education, and research. While many questions remain, the tools for prevention and early detection are already within reach. As one expert in the article put it, recognizing that “something is off” and speaking up can make all the difference.

Read more at womenshealthmag.com