Are younger cancer patients at higher financial risk?

Studies suggest so. The National Cancer Institute reports that a younger age at diagnosis raises the risk of financial toxicity, the money problems that come with the cost of care.

There are a few reasons. Younger people may have less saved and fewer assets to fall back on, and they may have other money duties, such as raising children. They are also not yet eligible for Medicare, which is mostly for people 65 and older, so they may have no insurance or a plan with a high deductible and high out-of-pocket costs. People who had cancer as a child may face money problems later in life too, since a childhood diagnosis can affect school and job chances.

If you are younger and worried about cost, you are not alone, and help exists. Ask your care team, a hospital social worker, or a financial navigator early. They can point you to programs and ways to save money.