Why Is Early-Onset Cancer on the rise among the Young Generation?

Cancer is a devastating disease that can strike at any age, but there has been a disturbing trend in recent years with a rise in early-onset cancer among the young generation. This phenomenon is alarming and raises many questions about why this is happening and what can be done to address it.

An Apollo Hospitals report released earlier this year sparked concerns for stating that India is the “cancer capital” of the world. Among others, the report showed an overall decline in Indians’ health and projected that 15.7 lakh Indians will have cancer by 2025. Breast, cervical, and ovarian cancers are the most frequently occuring in women, while lung, mouth and prostate cancers are the most frequent among men, the report continues.

The WHO stated that global cancer rates will rise by more than 75% by 2050. One BMJ study said that early onset of 29 different types of cancers has risen 80% between 1990 and 2019 worldwide. Colorectal and other gastrointestinal tract cancers are the most common, with breast and lung cancers also comprising a significant proportion.

Statistics show that more than a dozen cancers are more prevalent among people under 50; and projections say that early-onset cancers will rise by 30% between 2019 and 2030

There are several factors that may contribute to the increase in early-onset cancer among young people. One possible explanation is the changing lifestyles of the younger generation, including poor dietary habits, lack of exercise, and increased exposure to environmental toxins.

The modern diet, high in processed foods and low in fruits and vegetables, has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Additionally, sedentary lifestyles and the prevalence of obesity among young people can also contribute to the development of cancer.

Gut microbes play a key role in regulating our overall health, including immunity and digestion. Antibiotic usage – which has also risen – could also be a factor in people’s gut microbiomes changing, FT reported. Of 14 early-onset cancers, eight are digestive, “indicating the pathogenic importance of both the oral and intestinal microbiome,” a landmark study noted.

Take the fact that India, China, and Japan have emerged as the top three Asian countries in terms of new cancer cases and deaths. The dominant cancers here aren’t digestive but tracheal, bronchus and lung cancers, according to a Lancet report, and cervical cancer is ranked second in cancers in women. “… smoking, alcohol consumption and ambient particulate matter (PM) pollution remained dominant among the 34 risk factors for cancer… The rising cancer burden due to increasing ambient air pollution is concerning in Asia,” the researchers wrote. “In the low- and medium-income countries (LMICs) of Asia, oncologic infrastructure is either scarce or unaffordable, particularly in rural areas. Combined with a weak referral system, patients end up getting delayed diagnosis and treatment, leading to lower survival rates,” the researchers said.

Another factor that may be contributing to the rise in early-onset cancer is the increased use of electronic devices and exposure to radiation. Studies have shown that exposure to electromagnetic fields from cell phones and other electronic devices can increase the risk of certain types of cancer, particularly brain cancer. The widespread use of Wi-Fi and other wireless technologies may also be a contributing factor.

Environmental factors play a significant role in the development of cancer, and young people are increasingly exposed to a variety of carcinogens in their daily lives. Pollution, pesticides, and other environmental toxins can all increase the risk of cancer, particularly in younger individuals whose bodies are still developing.

The tidal wave of microplastics in our surroundings – infiltrating everything from our digestive tracts, reproductive tracts, and blood – is another emerging theory. One paper showed that rising rates of early-onset cancers coincided with the rise in microplastics in the environment. This age in human history, after all, is sometimes referred to as the Plasticene. Microplastics can cause DNA damage and oxidative damage, which are known risks for cancer.

Genetics also play a role in the development of cancer, and some young people may be more predisposed to the disease due to inherited genetic mutations. While genetic factors cannot be changed, young people can take steps to reduce their risk of cancer by making healthy lifestyle choices and avoiding known carcinogens.

The rise in early-onset cancer among the young generation is a cause for concern, but there are steps that can be taken to address this issue and reduce the risk of cancer in young people.

Education and awareness are key, and young people need to be informed about the risks of cancer and the steps they can take to protect themselves.

Healthy lifestyle choices, including eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol, can all help reduce the risk of cancer.

Young people should also be encouraged to limit their exposure to environmental toxins and radiation, including reducing their use of electronic devices and avoiding exposure to pollution and pesticides.

Regular screenings and early detection are also important in the fight against cancer, and young people should be encouraged to get regular check-ups and screenings to detect cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable.

By taking proactive steps to reduce their risk of cancer, young people can protect themselves and improve their chances of leading long and healthy lives.

In conclusion, the rise in early-onset cancer among the young generation is a concerning trend that requires immediate attention and action. By addressing the factors that contribute to the development of cancer in young people, including lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and genetics, we can work towards reducing the incidence of cancer in young individuals and improving their overall health and well-being. Young people must be educated about the risks of cancer and empowered to make healthy choices that can help them reduce their risk of developing this devastating disease. With awareness, education, and proactive measures, we can make a difference in the fight against cancer and protect the health of future generations.

https://www.theswaddle.com/early-onset-cancer-is-on-the-rise-why

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14501-colorectal-colon-cancer