A surge in cancer cases among individuals under 50 has raised alarm about the changing landscape of the disease in younger populations, according to a new study published in the journal BMJ Oncology. The study revealed that new cases of early-onset cancers (ages 15 to 49) reached 3.26 million in 2019, a 79.1% increase from 1990. While breast cancer was the most prevalent, the fastest-growing cancers since 1990 were found in the windpipe (nasopharynx) and prostate. The study also identified breast, windpipe, lung, bowel, and stomach cancers as the deadliest for young adults. The researchers emphasized the importance of educating the public and healthcare professionals about the possibility of cancer in younger adults to facilitate early detection and better outcomes.
The study, conducted by researchers in China, analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease 2019 Study for 29 types of cancer in 204 countries and regions. They looked at new cancer cases, deaths, health consequences, and risk factors among individuals aged 14 to 49 to determine the annual percentage changes between 1990 and 2019. Windpipe and prostate cancers experienced the most significant increase during this period, while liver cancer saw the sharpest decline. Cancer claimed the lives of over one million people under 50 globally in 2019, a 28% increase compared to 1990. Kidney and ovarian cancers had the highest increases in death rates. North America, Australasia, and Western Europe had the highest rates of early-onset cancer in 2019. The study projected a 31% increase in the number of early-onset cancer cases and a 21% increase in deaths by 2030, with those in their 40s being the most at risk.
Dr. Michael Cox, an associate professor at the University of British Columbia, highlighted that while the study indicates rising cancer rates worldwide, it is likely due to improved detection rather than a genuine increase. Genetic factors may play a role, but the researchers primarily attributed the main risk factors for common cancers in individuals under 50 to diets high in red meat and salt, low in fruits and milk, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use. Factors such as physical inactivity, excess weight, and high blood sugar also contributed to these cases. Changes in diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors since the 20th century, including increased rates of obesity, physical inactivity, westernized diets, and pollution, may have influenced the occurrence of early-onset cancer.
The study’s researchers emphasized the need to encourage a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, limited tobacco and alcohol consumption, and regular physical activity, in order to reduce the burden of early-onset cancer. They also suggested exploring the expansion of early screening and prevention programs for individuals aged 40-49. However, further research is necessary to make definitive determinations. The study did not provide specific information about how cancer rates are affecting young Canadians, but a previous study published in JAMA found that colorectal cancer rates are rising among adults under 50, despite declining rates in older adults. This shift is cause for concern as younger adults are typically classified as low risk for the disease.
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