Doctor Ngo Truong Son, deputy head of the oncology department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, stated this information, adding that early recognition of cancer signs in young people increases successful treatment chances.

Breast cancer

While more common in older women, breast cancer can occur before the age of 30. According to Dr. Son, the treatment outlook for younger individuals is generally better than for older groups when diagnosed at the same stage.

Common signs include lumps or hardened tissue in the breast, thickened breast skin, changes in the nipple, or nipple discharge. Young women are more likely to experience benign lumps. However, any breast abnormality should be examined to rule out cancer.

Lymphoma

Lymphoma, a cancer of the immune system, affects lymph nodes, tonsils, the thymus gland, and bone marrow. Symptoms include unexplained weight loss, fever, sweating, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes under the skin in the neck, armpits, or groin.

Lymphoma is classified as Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Hodgkin's lymphoma is most common between the ages of 15 and 40, especially in people in their 20s. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is less common but tends to progress rapidly in younger people. The treatment response rate is generally better in younger individuals compared to older adults.

Dr. Son advises a patient about cancer screening. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Son advises a patient about cancer screening. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Melanoma

Melanoma, a prevalent skin cancer in young people, particularly women under 30, has a genetic component and can appear early within families. Symptoms include a new spot on the skin or changes in the size, shape, or color of existing spots. Early detection leads to high curability. If left untreated, it can spread quickly, making treatment more challenging.

Sarcoma (soft tissue and bone cancer)

Sarcoma is a group of cancers affecting connective tissues like muscles, bones, and fat cells. There are two main types: soft tissue sarcoma and bone sarcoma. Soft tissue sarcoma can develop anywhere in the body, commonly in the arms and legs. Rhabdomyosarcoma, a specific type, primarily affects children under 10 but can also occur in adolescents and young adults.

Bone sarcoma is common in adolescents and young adults. Signs include bone pain worsening at night or during activity, and swelling around the affected bone. Bone tumors often appear in the leg bones, arm bones, pelvis, or ribs.

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer has a higher incidence in women and often emerges earlier than other cancers. A common symptom is a lump in the neck, potentially accompanied by pain, swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or voice changes. Most thyroid lumps are benign, but they should be checked to eliminate the risk of cancer. Early treatment has a high success rate.

Hoai Pham