A Population-Based Analysis of the Cancer Incidence in Individuals under 50 in a Northern Italian Province: Focusing on Regional Disparities and Public Health Implications.

Abstract

International studies have shown an increase in cancer incidence among young adults, raising public concern. This study aims examines trends in the cancer incidence among individuals aged 15-49 years in a province of Northern Italy, covering diagnoses from 1996 to 2021, and compares the annual percentage change (APC) with national and international data. In males, the overall cancer incidence showed a modest increase between 1996 and 2013 (APC 1.6), followed by a decline in the subsequent years (APC -2.5). In females, there was a modest increase over the entire period (APC 1.0). The lung cancer incidence decreased in both sexes (APC -3.9 in males and APC -3.3 in females), while a decrease was observed for colorectal cancers in women (APC -2.4). Since 2015, the thyroid cancer incidence declined significantly in females (APC -10.2), while an increase was noted in males (APC 2.5). The testicular cancer incidence rose in males (APC 1.5), and the melanoma incidence increased in both sexes (APC 3.4 in males and APC 3.9 in females). The breast cancer incidence remained stable (APC 0.3). These results underline the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles even among younger generations to address emerging cancer trends and support cancer prevention efforts.