A concerning trend is emerging in cancer diagnoses: an increase in cases among young adults. While cancer rates overall have been declining in recent decades, diagnoses in individuals under 50 are rising, prompting investigation and concern within the medical community.
Data released in January 2025 by the American Cancer Society revealed that cancer incidence rates in women under 50 are now 82% higher than in men of the same age group, a significant increase from 51% in 2002. This surge has garnered national attention, even becoming the subject of a Time magazine cover story focusing on the race to understand why more young adults are being diagnosed with cancer.
Types of Cancers on the Rise
Several types of cancers are becoming increasingly common in younger people, including colorectal, breast, prostate, uterine, stomach (gastric), and pancreatic cancers. A forecast predicts a 30% increase in cancer cases for this age group globally between and .
The increase in colorectal cancers among younger individuals has been particularly notable. The spike led major medical groups to lower the recommended age for beginning screening from 50 to 45. Research published in August 2025 by the American Cancer Society showed that these new guidelines increased colorectal screening by 62% among people between 45 and 50.
In young women, breast and thyroid cancers are driving a roughly 20% overall rise in cancer incidence. These two cancer types now account for nearly half of all cancers diagnosed in this age group.
The Search for Answers
“This represents serious and worrisome,” says Dr. Shari Goldfarb, a breast oncologist and Director of MSK’s Young Women With Breast Cancer program. “This is not a blip,” explains Dr. Andrea Cercek, a gastrointestinal oncologist and Co-Director of The Center for Young Onset Colorectal and Gastrointestinal Cancer. “The more data we gather, the clearer this becomes.”
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) is responding to this growing need by expanding its resources for adolescent and young adult cancers. In addition to existing centers focused on breast cancer, colorectal and gastrointestinal cancer, MSK established the Lisa and Scott Stuart Center for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancers. The anticipated surge in cases is a key factor driving the construction of a new state-of-the-art hospital, the MSK Pavilion.
Improvements in Survival Rates Alongside Rising Diagnoses
Despite the increase in diagnoses, advancements in cancer treatment are leading to improved survival rates. Recent reports indicate that the overall survival rate for cancer has reached a record high of 70 percent. This progress is attributed to new and more effective treatments.
However, the simultaneous rise in diagnoses among younger people remains a significant concern. While more patients are surviving cancer, the increasing number of cases in this age group necessitates further research to understand the underlying causes and develop targeted prevention strategies.
What is Known and What Remains Uncertain
The reasons behind the increase in cancer cases among young adults are still under investigation. Researchers are working to identify potential contributing factors, but as of , a definitive explanation remains elusive. The trend is observed globally, suggesting that environmental or lifestyle factors may play a role, but more research is needed to confirm this.
The medical community emphasizes the importance of early detection and encourages individuals to be aware of potential symptoms and discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers. Family history is also an important consideration, as highlighted by Yale Medicine specialists, who emphasize the importance of knowing your family’s cancer history.
