Why Younger People Are Getting Cancer and What We Can Do About It

For the first time, 2 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in 2024. Of those diagnosed, is an alarming increase in early-onset cancer in adults under 45. The trend is now global, occurring across sexes and cancer types. Projections indicate the incidence of early-onset cancers could increase globally 31 percent by 2030. Although definitive causes are not identified, many hypothesize one’s exposome and factors like a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and a diet of highly processed foods may be to blame. What can be done? This panel will examine the anticipated impact of early-onset cancer and how key changes in dietary, lifestyle, and environmental factors may reduce risk or slow the concerning rise in cancers in younger adults.