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Early detection truly can save lives —and it’s one of the most powerful tools we have. As a 15-year survivor of stage 3 breast cancer, I’m living proof that getting ahead of this disease makes all the difference. It is concerning to see younger Americans facing cancer at higher rates and my own journey through diagnosis, multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation has taught me something even more important: knowledge, vigilance, and proactive care are on our side.
Cancer is striking younger adults at rising rates, reshaping what we thought we knew about who is at risk. Between 2010 and 2019, cases rose across 14 types of cancer types in men and women under age 50 in the United States. Some of those cancers include breast, cervical, colorectal, melanoma (the deadliest type of skin cancer) and testicular. The good news is there are routine cancer screenings for these particular cancers, and innovations in screening and treatment are leading to better outcomes.
In 2026, an estimated 2.1 million people in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer. In Florida alone, an estimated 183,100 will be diagnosed. Though cases are rising, we’re making remarkable progress. The American Cancer Society recently reported that 70% of people are now surviving at least five years after a cancer diagnosis. When people are diagnosed early, there are more treatment options and better chances for survival.
The exact reasons for the increase in cases among younger adults are not yet fully understood, but it’s something researchers around the world are studying. Some studies have shown that lifestyle factors, such as lack of exercise, diets of processed foods, obesity and heavy alcohol use, may be to blame while others point to environmental factors like exposure to microplastics.
Unfortunately, many younger adults are diagnosed with cancer before they are even eligible for some routine cancer screenings. While recommended screening ages could expand—as they have recently for colorectal cancer—you may wonder what you can do now, regardless of whether you qualify for certain routine cancer screenings. Learn about your family history and consider genetic testing—a strong family history of certain cancers may mean you should get screened earlier or more frequently. Maintain a healthy lifestyle like eating a plant-based diet, staying active and avoiding tobacco and alcohol. Listen to your body. If you notice abnormal symptoms or changes, visit a health care provider. They can help you determine next steps, which might include a cancer screening.
I am deeply grateful to the brilliant doctors and healthcare professionals who helped me through my own cancer journey, and to those who care for millions of patients every year. Because of early detection and timely treatment, I was able to survive and continue building a life with my loved ones. My story is proof that early action makes a difference. I urge everyone, especially young adults, not to wait to get checked. Awareness today can mean survival tomorrow.
To learn the routine cancer screenings recommended for you, visit www.preventcancer.org/prevention-screening.
Tia Díaz-Balart is the spouse of Representative Mario Díaz-Balart and a member of the Prevent Cancer Foundation’s Congressional Families® Program.
