Getting diagnosed with cancer in your 20s and 30s can be isolating. But there are programs that can help

In a small auditorium at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, a group of young cancer patients are gathered to receive tips on how to cope with hair loss during chemotherapy. While workshops like these are not uncommon for cancer patients, what makes this particular session unique is that every patient in the room is under the age of 40.

This program is part of a specialized initiative at the cancer hospital, designed specifically for individuals who are diagnosed with cancer in their 20s and 30s. While cancer in this age group was once considered rare, recent research from the Lancet suggests that the incidence of cancer among millennials and younger Gen-Xers is on the rise in the U.S. This trend is also being observed in Canada, with a growing number of young adults being diagnosed with cancer.

According to Laura Burnett, who leads cancer support programs at the Canadian Cancer Society, the latest data indicates that nearly four percent of cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in adolescents and young adults aged 15 to 39 in 2023. The most common types of cancer among this age group include thyroid, testicular, colorectal, lymphoma, leukemia, breast, and colorectal cancers.

Dr. Shady Ashamalla, a colorectal cancer surgeon at Sunnybrook Hospital, notes that a cancer diagnosis in patients in their 20s and 30s was once considered unusual but has become more prevalent over the years. Hospitals like Princess Margaret have seen an increase in demand for programs that cater to the unique needs of young cancer patients.

The Adolescent Young Adult Program at Princess Margaret offers one-on-one support for patients under the age of 39, addressing concerns such as fertility preservation, managing anxiety and depression, and navigating financial challenges while undergoing cancer treatment. The program also facilitates connections between young cancer patients through group activities like yoga and art classes.

For 25-year-old Kasia Tywonek, who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the program has been a source of comfort and connection. Feeling isolated and out of sync with her peers, Tywonek found solace in meeting other young adults going through similar experiences.

While the reasons behind the increasing incidence of cancer among young people remain unclear, researchers are exploring factors such as diet, sedentary lifestyles, and stress as potential contributors. Dr. Ashamalla emphasizes the need for more research to understand the underlying causes of this trend.

Dr. Abha Gupta, the oncologist who spearheaded the Adolescent Young Adult Program at Princess Margaret, envisions expanding similar programs to ensure that all young cancer patients have access to comprehensive support services. By providing specialized care tailored to the unique needs of this demographic, hospitals can better address the challenges faced by young adults diagnosed with cancer.