Early-Onset Cancer Rising in the U.S., Especially Among Women

Early-Onset Cancer Rising in the U.S., Especially Among Women – Here’s What Experts Are Saying

While cancer before age 50 has traditionally been rare, recent data reveal a concerning increase in early-onset cancer cases across the United States. A new comprehensive study by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), published in Cancer Discovery, highlights sharp increases in breast, colorectal, kidney, and uterine cancers among younger adults.

Cancer Rising Among Adults Ages 15–49

Researchers analyzed data from over 2 million cancer diagnoses in individuals aged 15 to 49 between 2010 and 2019. They found that of 33 cancer types, 14 showed rising rates in at least one younger age group. Notably, about 63% of these early-onset cancers were diagnosed in women.

“This trend reflects something profound,” said Dr. Tim Rebbeck of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. “We urgently need more research to understand the root causes.”

How Many Extra Cancer Cases Are We Seeing?

When comparing 2019 cancer rates to projections based on 2010 data, the study revealed thousands of unexpected additional cases:

• Breast cancer: ~4,800 extra cases
• Colorectal cancer: ~2,000 extra cases
• Kidney cancer: ~1,800 extra cases
• Uterine cancer: ~1,200 extra cases

Despite the rise in cases, death rates for most early-onset cancers have not increased, except for colorectal, uterine, and testicular cancers.

What’s Causing the Rise in Early-Onset Cancer?

Experts believe multiple factors could be at play. Although the large cancer databases used in the study don’t capture detailed lifestyle or environmental data, leading theories include:

• Increasing obesity rates
• Later maternal age and reduced breastfeeding (linked to higher breast cancer risk)
• Improved screening and earlier diagnosis

“A number of these cancers are associated with excess body weight,” said study lead Dr. Meredith Shiels. “But more research is needed.”

A major scientific meeting is scheduled later this year to further explore the causes of rising early-onset cancers.

Not All Cancer Trends Are Rising

There’s some good news: rates of over a dozen cancer types are declining among younger adults. The most significant drops were in:

• Lung cancer – likely due to reduced smoking rates
• Prostate cancer – possibly linked to changes in PSA screening recommendations

Final Thoughts

While early-onset cancer is still relatively uncommon, the upward trend—especially in young women—warrants deeper investigation. Lifestyle, environmental factors, and healthcare practices may all be contributing, and experts are urging increased funding and attention to the issue.