Prof Aldenise Ewing speaks to ecancer about the findings from the HINTS-SEER study.

In this study researchers analysed national survey data to better understand the burden of screen-detectable cancers among adults diagnosed before age 50.

Findings showed that approximately 60% of early-onset cancers are potentially detectable through screening, with breast cancer representing the largest share, followed by non-melanoma skin and colorectal cancers.

Additional contributions came from prostate, lung, and cervical cancers, highlighting a broad distribution across cancer types.

The results also revealed disparities across sex and racial and ethnic groups, with a higher proportion of cases observed in women and meaningful representation among diverse populations.

These findings emphasise the growing importance of optimising screening strategies for younger adults, including earlier initiation, increased awareness, and more personalised, risk-based approaches to improve early detection and outcomes.