Why are more young people getting cancer? - What in the World podcast, BBC World Service

According to the World Health Organization, around 1 in 5 people will develop cancer during the course of their lifetimes. We usually associate the disease with getting older - but doctors are warning that some cancers are becoming more common in people in their 20s and 30s too. Data shows that bowel and breast cancer are the most common cancers for young adults, with others such as thyroid and ovarian cancer on the rise too. So, what’s behind this? In this episode, BBC Health and Science Correspondent James Gallagher explains why we’re seeing more young people being diagnosed with cancer - and the new treatments scientists are finding to combat the disease. We also hear from Lauren McDermott in Canada, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 22. She shares her story and tells us why she’s encouraging other young people to advocate for their health if they’re showing symptoms. 00:00 Introduction 01:03 What does cancer do to the body? 01:45 Why is it affecting more younger people? 04:56 Cancer survivor Lauren on getting screened 06:00 Cancer diagnosis in younger people 06:59 Cancer treatment 08:29 What should you do if you have concerns? 10:10 Lauren's journey with cancer 11:47 Conclusion Thanks for watching and subscribing! #BBCWorldService #WorldService #cancer #cancerprevention #health