Early-Onset Cancer as an Emerging Public Health Challenge
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32635/2176-9745.RBC.2026v72n1.5472Keywords:
Early-Onset Cancer, Neoplasms/epidemiology, Exposome, Age of Onset, Health Policy/trendsAbstract
The rising incidence of cancers diagnosed in individuals under 50 years of age, known as early-onset cancers (EOCs), represents an emerging global epidemiological phenomenon with significant clinical and public health implications. Initially described in colorectal tumors, this increase now encompasses breast, stomach, pancreas, liver, thyroid, and lymphomas, affecting countries at different levels of development. In Brazil, hospital-based cancer registries show a marked rise in cases among individuals aged 19 to 44 years, particularly breast, cervical, thyroid, and colorectal cancers. Etiological hypotheses point to transformations in the global exposome, driven by dietary changes, early-onset obesity, chronic infections, environmental pollution, metabolic disturbances, and cumulative intergenerational exposures. These cancers are often diagnosed at advanced stages, present with more aggressive behavior, and pose therapeutic challenges, with significant impacts on quality of life and the sustainability of the Brazilian National Health System (SUS). Although the National Policy for Cancer Prevention and Control (PNPCC) was updated in 2023, it does not explicitly address this phenomenon. Incorporating specific strategies for surveillance, prevention, and care is essential to reduce inequalities, strengthen the health system, and safeguard future generations.
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