A growing number of people under 50 are being diagnosed with over a dozen forms of cancer around the world. Men and women in the prime of their lives are increasingly being diagnosed with serious cancers, including colorectal, breast, prostate, uterine, stomach (gastric), pancreatic, and more.
MSK experts are leading the investigation into why this is happening. Researchers have discovered promising leads for the increasing rates of cancer, including:
Four MSK patients were featured on the cover of the TIME February 2025 issue. From left on the cover: Giancarlo, Kelly, Imtiaz, and Carrie. Credit: TIME Magazine
Janelle was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was just 39 years old. Hear about Janelle’s experience as a young person with cancer, and what inspires her to look for the good on even the hardest days.
Follow along during a day in the life of MSK patient, Irene. Counting her steps is not just a fitness goal for Irene—it's how she navigates life following surgery to remove a tumor on her leg a few years ago. See how she's stepping into a hopeful future today.
How has Anthony coped with brain cancer? For the last 15 years, he's developed his good sense of "tumor humor." Listen to his story now.
Dana Vergara was the first person in the U.S. to deliver a baby after a groundbreaking surgery at MSK protected her from the side effects of radiation for rectal cancer.
The form of immunotherapy used in the trial received the FDA’s “Breakthrough Therapy Designation” in 2024 for treating people with a particular type of rectal cancer.
In this empowering episode of MSK's Cancer Straight Talk podcast, a panel of onco-fertility experts discuss the options for patients who want to have biological children without delaying life-saving treatments.
MSK is a pioneer in caring for the specific needs of people facing early-onset cancers. Our expert physicians and researchers deliver lifechanging clinical trials, innovative treatments, targeted therapies, and expansive support services to patients that can't be accessed elsewhere.
MSK’s experts help younger patients navigate issues, including fertility preservation, conversations about cancer with family, colleagues, and partners, and the impact on work, dating, and sexual health.
To support those distinct needs, MSK established the Lisa and Scott Stuart Center for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancers. Other specialized centers, like our colorectal, gastrointestinal, and breast cancer centers, offer the latest treatments while focusing on long-term health and quality of life for younger patients.
This comprehensive clinical and research center is transforming the experience, care and outcomes for adolescents and young adults ages 15-39 with cancer.
MSK’s Center for Young Onset Colorectal and Gastrointestinal Cancer is the first clinic of its kind in the world dedicated solely to the specific needs of people under 50 who have colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal cancers.
The Young Women with Breast Cancer program offers clinical care, support, education, and research for people with early onset breast cancer and those aged 45 and younger facing breast cancer.
View our Resources for Journalists to contact a member of MSK’s Media Relations team.
