For many people, early adulthood is a time for school, work, relationships, and raising a family. A lung cancer diagnosis can disrupt those plans. At Dana-Farber, we provide expert care for adults diagnosed with lung cancer before age 50, with support at every step.
How Lung Cancer Can Look Different in Younger Adults
Lung cancer is more common in older adults (the median age at diagnosis is about 67). When it happens under 50, it can be harder to recognize. Symptoms may look like other conditions, and diagnosis may be delayed.
Many younger adults with lung cancer:
- Have never smoked
- Are more likely to be women
- Are more likely to be Hispanic or Asian/Pacific Islander
- Are more often diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, a common type of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
Adenocarcinoma is more likely to have certain genetic changes that may be treated with targeted therapy. Targeted therapies treat cancer based on its biology and may have different side effects than standard chemotherapy.
Younger adults are also more likely to be diagnosed after cancer has spread (metastasized), including to the brain. That’s why early, accurate testing and planning are so important.