Why More Young People Are Getting Cancer

There is concern about the sharp increase in cancer rates among young people. This rise in incidence among individuals aged 15 to 39 has increased by 40% from 1975 to the present. There is a sense of mystery and concern within the oncology community as they attempt to understand this trend. Cancer rates among the youth are rising especially in countries with Western lifestyles, including the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and parts of Europe.

These regions have higher consumption of ultra-processed foods, characterized by convenience and affordability. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as increased reliance on cars and poor sleep schedules contribute to this trend. Fourteen types of cancers, including breast, colorectal, endometrial, and pancreatic cancers, are particularly on the rise among those under 50. In Zimbabwe fast foods are being taxed by the government and the proceeds will benefit hospitals who have to deal with patience who often over indulge fast foods produce.

Oncologists report that many young patients often appear healthy, featuring active lifestyles like marathon running, yet they still face cancer diagnoses. Many young patients find it perplexing and shocking to receive such news at a young age.

Being diagnosed with cancer while navigating life’s responsibilities—like caring for aging parents or starting a family—can be destabilizing. A person born in 1990 faces four times the risk of colorectal cancer compared to one born in 1950. By 2030, colorectal cancer is expected to be the leading cause of cancer death among young people.

Colorectal cancer typically affects parts of the body many consider embarrassing, leading to stigma and misconceptions. Many still do not associate colon cancer with youth. There is a noted trend of late-stage diagnoses among younger patients, evidenced by the cases of individuals like actor Chadwick Boseman, whose advanced colorectal cancer went undetected until it was too late.

While increased screening has undoubtedly led to more cancer detections, it does not fully account for the rising rate of advanced cancers among the young. Diet is a significant concern, as eight of the 14 rising cancer types are related to the digestive system. Recent decades have seen a decline in dietary quality, with more red meat, sugar, and alcohol consumption, alongside a decrease in water and fiber intake.

A sedentary lifestyle and poor sleep patterns further exacerbate health risks. People often maintain irregular sleep schedules, leading to insufficient rest, and modern work demands, including night shifts, didn't exist in prior decades. Environmental toxins, microplastics, and pollution are additional concerns contributing to rising cancer rates, though measuring their impact is challenging.

Interestingly, emerging theories suggest a correlation between increased height and cancer risk, as taller individuals may have more cells susceptible to division. Being born via C-section has also been implicated in greater cancer risks, as certain studies indicate a link to colorectal cancer and leukemia among those born this way due to differences in microbial exposure that influence the microbiome.

The increase in cancer rates from 1990 onwards raises questions about reversing this trend. Comprehensive research is essential to identify the underlying causes. Without a clear understanding, societal efforts will have limited effectiveness. While individual lifestyle choices—such as improving diet, exercising, and participating in screenings—are important, systemic changes are crucial for a broader impact.

Making cities more walkable and enhancing access to healthy foods are examples of necessary infrastructure changes. While the situation is concerning, encouragingly, the cancer mortality rate has decreased due to advancements in treatment. Vaccines, such as the HPV vaccine, have significantly lowered the mortality rates for certain types of cancers. The oncology community is rallying around these issues, fostering optimism that concerted efforts could lead to meaningful change.