Nearly 65,600 adolescents and young adults (AYAs) aged 15–39 were diagnosed with cancer in 2005; that is according to the National Cancer Institute. On the brink of 2010, cancer cases aren’t getting any better. The incidence of specific cancer types varies dramatically across the AYA age continuum. For example, leukemias, lymphomas, and central nervous system (CNS) tumors are prevalent in younger AYAs; in those aged 20–39, these cancers decline in frequency while other cancers such as cervical, colorectal, and particularly breast cancer, comprise a growing share of AYA cancers.

Mortality and Survival Cancer is the leading cause of disease-related deaths in the AYA population; it is the most common disease-related cause of death among females and is second only to heart disease among males. In the AYA age group, only homicide, suicide, and unintentional injury claim more lives than cancer.

Compared with younger and older age groups, AYAs have experienced little or no improvement in cancer survival rates in more than two decades. Several factors might account for the lack of improved outcomes in AYAs with cancer, including limited access to care and insurance coverage, delayed diagnosis of primary cancers, inadequate treatment practices and settings, poor understanding of the biology and etiology distinguishing the cancers in this population, inadequate collection of patients and patient data, low numbers of clinical trials and poor participation, unique psychosocial and supportive care needs, inconsistent treatment and follow-up care guidelines, and limited emphasis on prevention and early detection.

Prevention and Detection
Improving cancer prevention is part of the mission of several organizations and healthcare professionals here in the US. Cancer Prevention and risk-reduction strategies can greatly lower the physical, emotional, and financial burden of cancer and improve the overall health of cancer survivors, including lowering the risk of the cancer coming back or the formation of a second cancer. There are a number of steps should take to be proactive against cancer including: receiving proper cancer screenings, increasing your awareness of cancer disparities, practicing proper diet and nutrition and learning how physical activity can prevent cancer. Such testing, advice and recommendations is offered during routine doctor visits and regular yearly checkups. A health plan gives you access to healthcare.

Medical Cost
One of the factors preventing improvement in cancer survival rates previously mentioned is due to the lack of insurance coverage. In fact, young adults make up the largest group of uninsured in the US. 21% of the uninsured are below age 18 and 63% are under age 34. Many of those without coverage are from working families who feel it is impossible to find affordable health insurance. Others were covered under their parents insurance until they became ineligible. Sudden illness can happen and those without health insurance are left unable to handle the medical expenses. Out-of-pocket cost can quickly add up and affect you and your family’s budget. These expenses are also the reason some people don’t follow or complete their cancer treatment plan. However, not following your treatment plan for any reason could put your health at risk and lead to even higher health care costs in the future. Contrary to what many believe, there are many competing health insurance carriers which means there is room for those looking for health coverage to shop around for the best deal. There are also health insurance agents who will listen to your needs and help you find the best coverage for you.

Healthcare Reform
Many are hoping healthcare reform will bring aid to those receiving treatment, as well as, foster cancer prevention. However, if the healthcare overhaul is enacted, it will take several years for the plan to actually go into effect, according to the bill. The public health insurance plan is estimated to start going into effect in 2013. But some benefits would start immediately, including provisions that would require private insurers to provide a minimum level of coverage, Medicare improvements, provisions to decrease administrative costs and targeted assistance for certain people ages 55-64. In the meantime, health insurance and health protection is still needed.