Colorectal cancer surging in young people worldwide: Study

[KENNEDY FELTON]

Alarming new details about a global health crisis are emerging. A recent study reveals that colorectal cancer, once primarily associated with older adults, is rising among young people worldwide.

The study published in Lancet Oncology describes it as a “global phenomenon.” While increasing cases among Americans under 50 have been reported in recent years, the new data shows this pattern is spreading well beyond the U.S. to other highly industrialized nations and middle-income countries. Between 2013 and 2017, colorectal cancer rates in people under 50 increased in 27 of the 50 countries studied.

The top five countries with the sharpest increases are New Zealand, Chile, England, Norway, and Australia. In the United States, where nearly 20,000 under-50s are diagnosed every year, there was a rate increase of 2.13 percent annually.

So what’s causing this increase? According to the study’s authors, diet could be a major factor.

People once followed traditional diets, consuming foods low in fat and high in fiber. But the study suggests increased consumption of red or processed meat, sugars, and ultra-processed foods have likely contributed.

Ultra-processed foods have been significantly changed from their original state and include many added ingredients. Harvard Health says they are mostly made from substances extracted from things like fat, starch, added sugar, and hydrogenated fats.

These foods can range from frozen meals, soft drinks, hot dogs and cold cuts, fast food, packaged cookies, cake, and salty snacks. The study’s author tells Yahoo that since the 1950s and 60s, when highly processed foods became more common in the U.S., people started becoming exposed to changes in the environment that we’re starting to see in younger generations. However, ultra-processed foods are likely working with other factors to drive this trend.

Many countries don’t recommend colorectal cancer screenings until people are in their 40s or 50s, leaving younger people at risk. But there are ways to reduce your risk.

The author of this study suggests maintaining a healthy weight, eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, and reducing your consumption of ultra-processed foods. Limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking can also make a significant difference, saying they have calculated about 54 percent of colorectal cancer is attributed to these behaviors.

It is also critical to recognize early signs of colorectal cancer, including changes in bowel habits or persistent abdominal pain. But the study says the issue will require global initiatives, calling for tools to prevent and control cancers linked to diet, inactivity, and excess weight.