Investigating the causes of early-onset cancers in young adults

UNCOVER: underlying novel causes of onset of very early cancer research

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10923894

This study is looking into why more young adults, aged 25 to 49, are getting certain types of cancers like colorectal, thyroid, and kidney cancers, and it aims to find out how things in our environment and our lifestyles might be playing a role, so we can help prevent these cancers in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10923894 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the alarming rise in certain cancers among young adults, specifically colorectal, thyroid, and kidney cancers. By analyzing extensive data from the U.S. SEER database, the study aims to identify environmental and lifestyle factors contributing to these increases. The researchers will employ advanced statistical modeling to explore trends and risk factors associated with these cancers in individuals aged 25 to 49. The goal is to uncover underlying causes that could lead to preventive measures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young adults aged 25 to 49 who may be at risk for colorectal, thyroid, or kidney cancers.

Not a fit: Patients diagnosed with cancers outside of the specified types or those over the age of 49 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies for preventing early-onset cancers in young adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated rising trends in early-onset cancers, suggesting that this investigation builds on established findings rather than exploring untested territory.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Advanced CancerCancer BiologyCancer Detection
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.