Hospiten is committed to the prevention and early diagnosis of cancer in adolescents and young adults on World Cancer Day.
Worldwide, it is estimated that there are around 3 billion adolescents and young adults, representing approximately 40% of the global population. In 2019, about 1,400,000 new cases of cancer were diagnosed in this age group, accounting for about 6% of all cancer diagnoses.
Professor Dr. Manuel Morales, head of the Medical Oncology Service at Hospiten Rambla University Hospital, states that "several epidemiological studies have shown that the various cancers affecting this age group, between 15 and 29, have a biological and clinical behavior that is different from those occurring in other age ranges."
The oncologist explains that "while it is assumed that congenital and prenatal factors play an important role in childhood cancers and that environmental factors play an important role in adult cancers, it is assumed that in cancers of adolescence and young adulthood, both factors come together".
Prof. Dr. Morales assures that, "although there are genetic alterations that predispose to the development of cancer at an early age, only a small percentage of cases have a clearly hereditary origin. Factors that could explain the increase in incidence in recent decades include obesity, excessive exposure to ionizing radiation, factors related to chronic inflammation or alterations in the intestinal microbiota".
The types of cancer affecting adolescents and young adults differ from those seen in children or older people.
Overall, the five most frequent cancers in this group are breast and cervical cancers, leukemias, lymphomas and cancers of the colon and rectum. Among the female population, breast, cervical, ovarian and thyroid cancers stand out. Among men, testicular cancers, leukemias, lymphomas, cancers of the colon and rectum, and brain tumors.
Prevention and early diagnosis as allies
Just as in the adult stage, prevention and early diagnosis is valid for adolescent and young adult cancers.
Prof. Dr. Morales emphasizes habits such as "vaccination at an early age against the human papilloma virus, limiting exposure to the sun, using sun protection, avoiding tobacco and alcohol consumption, avoiding obesity and eating a healthy diet".
On the other hand, as regards treatment, in general it will depend on the type and stage of the tumor, but it is always necessary to take into account the biological and psychological differences of this age group. "It is very important when considering treatment for this group of patients to take into account the repercussions of the treatment in terms of sequelae and also in terms of fertility and sexuality," the oncologist points out.
Hospiten stresses the need to prevent and carry out the necessary tests for an early diagnosis of cancer, as this will allow it to be treated to avoid future sequelae and complications for their future life.
This article is an English translation generated with AI from the original Spanish content. While we review content for clarity, the information is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment.