CANCER - a dreaded word that no one wants to hear. But unfortunately, cases of cancer are on the rise, and it's not just affecting the older population. A new landmark study reveals that rates of all cancers in individuals under 50 have surged by an alarming 79% over the past three decades.
Notable Cases
Recent high-profile deaths have brought attention to the growing prevalence of cancer in young people. The Wanted's Tom Parker lost his life to an aggressive brain tumor at the age of 33 last year, while Girls Aloud star Sarah Harding passed away from breast cancer at 39. These tragic losses serve as a reminder that cancer does not discriminate based on age.
Contributing Factors
According to Professor James East, a gastroenterologist at Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, there are several factors contributing to the increase in early onset cancers. These include genetic mutations, obesity, adoption of Western diets high in red meat and processed foods, increased smoking and alcohol use, and exposure to environmental factors like air pollution.
New Studies
A recent study led by scientists at the University of Edinburgh found that cancer cases in individuals aged 14 to 49 have more than doubled from 1.82 million worldwide to 3.26 million between 1990 and 2019. Another study from Harvard University revealed a rapid rise in early onset cases across 14 types of cancer, including digestive cancers, skin, breast, reproductive cancers, and blood cancers.
Breast cancer accounted for the largest number of cases in individuals under 50 and saw a 7.7% increase between 2010 and 2019. In the UK, there are around 10,000 cases of breast cancer in women under 50 each year. It is important for all women to regularly check their breasts and be aware of any changes.
Symptoms and Early Detection
Prompt detection and early intervention can significantly improve a patient's chances of survival. Dr. Kotryna Temcinaite, a representative from Breast Cancer Now, urges women to not just look for lumps but also be aware of other signs, such as changes to the skin or nipple discharge.
But breast cancer isn't the only concern. The University of Edinburgh's research also revealed sharp increases in windpipe and prostate cancer cases among individuals under 50, as well as a rise in bowel cancer. The late Dame Deborah James, a campaigner and columnist, played a significant role in raising awareness about bowel cancer and successfully advocated for lowering the age for bowel cancer screening from 60 to 50.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Dr. Lisa Wilde from Bowel Cancer UK emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, stating that while cases of bowel cancer among the under-50s have risen, deaths have not. This underscores the fact that early detection can lead to more successful treatment.
Conclusion
Although the exact reasons for the rising rates of cancer in younger individuals are still being studied, it is clear that age is not a protective factor. It is vital for people of all ages to be mindful of any concerning changes in their health and to consult their healthcare professionals if necessary.
