The Decibel
Why more young people are getting cancer
Feb 18, 2025
Kelly Grant, a national health reporter at The Globe and Mail, dives into the alarming rise of cancer among those under 50. She discusses personal stories from survivors Nicole and Jay, who faced healthcare skepticism and emotional trials. The conversation highlights the need for earlier screenings and the psychological toll on young patients. Grant underscores how lifestyle and environmental factors may contribute to this trend, urging listeners to recognize unusual symptoms and advocate for their health.
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Quick takeaways
- The alarming rise in early-onset cancer, with a 79% increase from 1990 to 2019, indicates a need for greater awareness and proactive health measures among younger populations.
- Personal stories of young cancer survivors highlight the unanticipated challenges of receiving a cancer diagnosis during critical life stages, emphasizing the emotional and practical disruptions they face.
Deep dives
Personal Impact of Early Cancer Diagnosis
The experience of being diagnosed with cancer at a young age can be jarring and life-altering. Cases like those of Nicole McRani-Apa and Jay Abramovich illustrate how individuals in their 30s often feel unprepared to face such a diagnosis, as they are at critical stages in their personal and professional lives. For instance, Nicole discovered a lump in her armpit at 33 while believing she was in great health, only to receive her diagnosis shortly before a planned trip. Jay's discovery was equally shocking, as he sought help for mild abdominal discomfort and was told in the emergency room that he might have colorectal cancer, a diagnosis that disrupted the plans he and his wife had for starting a family.
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