By: Dr. Helen Weber, Senior Medical Adviser at Sanlam

Cancer incidence in young people is increasing worldwide, multiple studies have shown. Sanlam’s most recent claim statistics found 26% of all cancer claims were from clients younger than 45. This is consistent with the global increase in early-onset cancer events. Dr Helen Weber, Senior Medical Adviser at Sanlam, urges young people to make smart lifestyle choices and get screened regularly. She stresses that most cancers - usually have a good prognosis if -discovered early.  

Dr Weber says, “Overall, 57% of Sanlam’s Severe Illness Claims were from clients younger than 55; for females specifically, this rose to 70%. Crucially, cancer accounted for most of these claims.  This aligns with global trends. A study in BMJ Oncology reported a 79% global increase in cancer cases among younger individuals from 1990 to 2019, primarily attributed to dietary choices, alcohol and tobacco use. Statistics South Africa projects that cancer incidents will more than double from 2019 to 2030, particularly affecting women aged 25 to 54, with cervical and breast cancer being among the most diagnosed.

“We need to empower younger individuals to be proactive about their health and to opt in to regular screenings early in life.”

Get Screened

“The US Centre for Disease Control  (CDC) says that screening can prevent thousands of cancer deaths, with mammography programmes reducing breast cancer mortality by over 40%, for example. Similarly, it attributes the almost 50% decrease in cervical cancer incidence in the last three decades to routine pap smear screenings.  

Dr Weber adds, “The earlier cancer is detected the better; for example, almost 100% of women that are treated for certain types of stage 1 breast cancer will survive for five years or more.  Covid-19 disrupted routine screenings, so we’re likely seeing undiagnosed cases being identified now.  It’s crucial young people start getting into the habit of having routine screenings early on.”

Make Healthier Choices

The CDC suggests that up to 50% of all cancers diagnosed today could be prevented by less exposure to tobacco smoke, a healthy body weight, and having the suggested cancer screenings and vaccinations.  

Dr Weber adds, “We know that risk factors like obesity and smoking contribute significantly to increasing cancer rates. Yale Medicine advocates young people pay attention to their nutrition and exercise regimes, avoid smoking or drinking too much alcohol, and share their family history with their physician to decide on the right preventative steps to take.”

Know Your Family History

Genetic factors play a role, with about 20% of early-onset breast cancers linked to genetic mutations. Dr. Weber says “Knowing your family history is important.  Genetic testing is a good option to consider if you have a strong history of cancer in your family.  It is recommended to start screenings earlier; as an example consider getting mammograms from as young as 40, or an ultrasound if higher risk. Do this in consultation with your regular doctor.”

Get The Right Protection

Dr. Weber adds, “We encourage parents of adolescent girls to vaccinate them with the HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer. Later, young women should be encouraged to get regular pap smears for early detection of changes. It is also essential for girls to learn self-examination techniques for breast health.

“We also suggest young people seek a financial adviser to discuss the best kinds of cover to protect themselves financially from health curveballs. The greatest asset a young person has is their earning potential. Sickness, disability and severe illness cover, medical aid, and gap cover can all help a person through the cost ramifications of an illness like cancer. It’s so important to plan for every eventuality, even when some things seem inconceivable. Emergency savings are a smart idea as well.

“Knowing the facts empowers us to make smart, proactive choices. We know lifestyle is linked to multiple cancers. And we know routine screenings play a strong preventative part in cancers progressing. Young people can take control of their well-being and financial futures by making informed decisions today.”