Diagnoses of early-onset cancers have seen a sharp rise, particularly in gastrointestinal cancer, according to a recent study published in JAMA Network Open. The study, conducted by researchers from the National University of Singapore, analyzed data from 17 national cancer registries between 2010 and 2019. The findings revealed that early-onset cancers affecting individuals aged 50 and younger have experienced an increase in incidence, while the incidence has decreased for those over 50.
Gastrointestinal cancer showed the fastest-growing rate, with a 14.80% rise, followed by cancer of the endocrine system at 8.69% and breast cancer at 7.7%. Gastrointestinal cancer can originate anywhere along the digestive tract, including the esophagus, small intestine, stomach, pancreas, colon, bile duct, gall bladder, liver, anus, and rectum.
Despite the significant increase in gastrointestinal cancer, breast cancer still had the highest total number of cases among individuals aged 50 and under in 2019. The study authors suggest that the rise in early-onset cancers may be linked to factors such as increasing obesity rates and changes in environmental exposures, including smoke and gasoline, sleep patterns, physical activity, microbiota, and transient exposure to carcinogenic compounds.
Dr. Monique Gary, medical director of the Grand View Health/Penn Cancer Network, reviewed the study findings and highlighted the concerning trend of increasing cancer rates among younger individuals. She emphasized that many risk factors associated with cancer incidence are preventable, such as obesity, tobacco and alcohol intake, sedentary lifestyles, and lack of rest. However, these risk factors have been exacerbated during the pandemic.
Dr. Gary stressed the importance of understanding lifestyle factors that influence cancer risk, as well as the need for further research into biological mechanisms. Attention should also be given to mental health, diet, and social determinants of health that influence these risk factors. She encouraged individuals to prioritize an active lifestyle and adopt plant-forward diets high in antioxidants and cruciferous vegetables.
While the study does not consider the full impact of COVID-19 on comorbidities and cancer risk factors, it serves as evidence of the need to address preventable risk factors and reduce chronic illnesses. Moving forward, further studies should assess the patterns of chronic illnesses in young people, including the impact of sedentary lifestyles and diet.
The rising incidence of early-onset cancers highlights the importance of early detection, screening, and risk-reducing strategies, especially for individuals with family history and non-preventable risk factors. The findings call for a comprehensive approach to wellness, considering physical and mental health, diet, and lifestyle choices in order to effectively reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic illnesses.
