Cancer is not typically associated with young adulthood, but a disturbing trend is emerging. In recent years, aggressive forms of cancer are striking people in their 20s, 30s, and even 40s. This phenomenon has left doctors and researchers stunned.
Dr. Edward S. Kim, physician-in-chief at City of Hope, attributes the increase to “unexplained” causes. The American Cancer Society reports a 1-2% annual rise in early-onset cancer cases between ages 18 and 49.
Two Mission Viejo residents, Cori and Zak Salazar, are among those affected. At 38 years old, Zak was diagnosed with glioblastoma, while Cori, also 40, has thyroid cancer. Both had never experienced health issues before their diagnoses.
The alarming rise of cancer cases in young adults has led researchers to investigate the reasons behind this sudden surge. Dr. Amanda Schwer, a radiation oncologist at City of Hope, notes that breast cancer is one of the cancers seen more frequently among younger patients.
Orange County, where Cori and Zak reside, has the highest incidence of younger people with breast cancer and other cancers compared to neighboring counties. The exact causes remain unknown, but Dr. Kim warns that without understanding what’s behind this trend, it may be difficult to prevent or treat the disease effectively.
As Circle of Health reporter Denise Dador delves into the Changing Face of Cancer, the impact on these young families and their communities is only just beginning to unfold.
Source: https://abc7.com/post/changing-face-cancer-rise-aggressive-forms-younger-adults-promptsresearchers-do-deeper-dive/16040730