'You're a fraud!' 23-year-old’s cancer diagnosis sparks intense online hate, but this is our new reality
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“A young patient like Sydney, or at any age really, can keep going and look very good. But it does not undermine that she’s still living with a very serious matter.” — Ghassan Abou-Alfa, MD, oncologist
Sydney Towle, a 23-year-old Dartmouth graduate, was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma—a rare and aggressive form of bile duct cancer that is typically seen in older adults. []
Towle's case is a stark reminder that cancer doesn’t just affect older individuals.
With young people increasingly diagnosed with rare cancers, Towle’s story provides a lens through which we can explore the evolving landscape of cancer care for younger patients and the unique challenges they face.
A case study in the younger cancer patient
Towle’s symptoms included a protruding abdominal bump and a burning sensation during physical activity. Towle’s eventual diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma, after multiple imaging tests, highlights a growing issue: Younger cancer patients are becoming more visible.
But many social media commenters were certain that Towle was lying about having cancer.
Physicians must recognize that younger cancer patients, especially those diagnosed with rare cancers like cholangiocarcinoma, may present with atypical symptoms or be overlooked because they don't fit the conventional cancer profile.
Treatment strategies must therefore be tailored not only to the specific type of cancer but also to the patient's age, lifestyle, and emotional needs.
Towle, like many young cancer patients, had to navigate not only the physical toll of the disease but also the psychological challenges of dealing with a diagnosis that defies typical expectations.
Related: Common medical scams that should be on every doctor’s radarThe role of social media in cancer scammers
Social media platforms like TikTok, where Towle has amassed over 770,000 followers, have become central to the cancer experience for younger patients.
Towle uses her platform to document her treatment process, share her emotional struggles, and advocate for others facing similar battles.
Her candid videos, which have reached millions, help break down the stigma around cancer in young people and provide much-needed visibility for an often-overlooked demographic.
However, social media can also have its downsides. The same platforms that offer support can also foster the spread of harmful misinformation—for instance, Australian wellness scammer Belle Gibson claimed that apple cider vinegar cured her of cancer, a dangerous assertion that misleads many people facing the disease. []
As Towle’s story illustrates, young cancer patients are increasingly turning to social media to seek guidance, community, and emotional support, but they may also be exposed to influencers who promote unproven treatments and encourage patients to forego traditional, evidence-based care.
While these platforms can offer a sense of community and encouragement, they also amplify misleading claims that could have real consequences for patients' health.
Some patients may be swayed by influencers they trust and look up to, potentially opting for alternative treatments that are not scientifically validated, which can delay or even prevent access to standard medical care.
Related: Cancer rates are on the rise in younger populations; here’s whyWhat does this mean for doctors?
This is the stark reality we all must face: Cancer diagnoses in young, seemingly healthy people are increasing at a rapid clip. Physicians must be mindful of the new challenges that young patients face, while considering the emotional and psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis.
The ability to seek support and advice online can make their journey easier, but it can also expose these young patients to misinformation that can make treatment more difficult and lead to dangerous decisions. Physicians are now tasked with providing guidance, not only on the medical aspects of their condition, but also on the psychological toll and the potential pitfalls of online cancer communities.
This can involve educating patients about the importance of evidence-based care while acknowledging the potential benefits of support networks.
It’s essential for healthcare providers to engage with younger patients’ experiences, validating their struggles and providing them with the support they need both in and out of the hospital.