Lung Cancer In Young Adults: What People In Their Early 20s Need To Know

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, accounting for an estimated 20 lakh cases and 10.8 lakh deaths. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), the disease occurs mostly in older adults, with most people diagnosed aged 65 or older. The average age of people when diagnosed is about 70, the US health body shares. 

While lung cancer is often considered an older person's disease, young people can also develop it. Although the risk factors and causes among young people may differ from those of the elderly, early diagnosis remains the top priority to avoid complications. 

Also Read: Things That Make You Prone To Lung Cancer Other Than Smoking

Lung Cancer Prevalence In Young Adults

Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Anjali R Nath, Consultant Pulmonologist, SPARSH Hospital, Bengaluru, said, “Lung cancer in young adults is relatively rare compared to its prevalence in older individuals, but it can be particularly devastating due to the unexpected nature of its occurrence.”

She added, “While smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, several factors can contribute to this disease in young people. These include exposure to secondhand smoke, environmental toxins, and genetic predisposition.” 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), smoking accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases. However, when it comes to young people with lung cancer, they’re more likely to be non-smokers than smokers, as per a review published in the Translational Lung Cancer Research.

In addition, genetics is said to account for 8% of lung cancer developments, according to Oncology Letters. This means that a person is at an increased risk of developing lung cancer depending on their genetic makeup.

Moreover, a family history of lung cancer, meaning that the risk of lung cancer can increase if a family member has the disease or has had it in the past. However, having a family history of lung cancer does not necessarily mean one will surely develop the disease.

Adding further, Dr Kundan Mehta, Pulmonologist, Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune, said that air pollution and lack of nutrients can also contribute to the burden, advising people, especially young adults to have a balanced diet, indulge in regular exercising, avoid smoking, and have air pollution protectors in place.

Warning Signs Of Lung Cancer

Common signs of lung cancer include:

• Persistent cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained weight loss

It is important to note that early symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other less severe conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis, said Dr Nath. 

If diagnosed, treatment options typically involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapies, depending on the stage and type of lung cancer, she added.

Also Read: Lung Cancer: 7 Signs You Need To Know

Preventive Measures 

To reduce your risk of lung cancer, here are a few tips to follow:

• Smoking cessation
• Minimise exposure to environmental toxins
• Get regular health check-ups to detect any early warning signs
• Raise awareness about the potential risks
• Advocate for a healthier lifestyle among young adults 

Conclusion

Lung cancer among young people is very rare. However, it can still occur and lead to complications. The key is to detect it early and get timely treatment to achieve positive outcomes. Additionally, making healthier lifestyle choices, avoiding environmental toxins, and taking necessary measures against pollution are ways to reduce the risk of developing the disease.