"A new study by researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston highlights the growing trend of cancer incidence among young adults. The findings, published in the journal Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology, show a rise in early-onset cancers across multiple countries in the past several decades, including breast, colorectum, endometrium, oesophagus, extrahepatic bile duct, gallbladder, head and neck, kidney, liver, bone marrow, pancreas, prostate, stomach and thyroid.
The reasons behind this trend are yet to be fully understood, but according to Bhavana Pathak, MD, a board-certified hematologist and medical oncologist at MemorialCare Cancer Institute, factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise, and consumption of processed foods are being considered as potential causes.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), the risk of death from cancer in the United States has decreased in recent years. The cancer death rate for both men and women declined by 32% from 1991 to 2019. This decrease may be attributed to early diagnosis and better survival rates for those with lung cancer.
1) Why are Cancer Incidences Increasing?
Anton Bilchik, a surgical oncologist at Saint John's Health Center and director of the Gastrointestinal Research Program at Saint John's Cancer Institute, attributes the rise in cancer cases to various factors, including a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and processed food. These factors can cause inflammation in the body, leading to disruptions in the microbiome and immune system, which may increase the risk of cancer. Additionally, improved screening methods and increased public education about cancer have led to early detection in more younger patients.
Sean Marchese, a registered nurse at The Mesothelioma Center with extensive experience in oncology clinical trials, explains that the 2023 Cancer Statistics released by the American Cancer Society show that some cancers, such as prostate cancer, are on the rise. This increase, which has risen 3% annually from 2014 to 2019, could be due to improved screening and detection methods, as well as changes in diet and lifestyle choices. Advanced technologies for detecting cancers and more people getting screened may also contribute to the rise in cancer incidence.
2) Why is Cancer Still a Major Cause of Death Despite Advances in Treatment?
According to Dr. Pathak, advances in cancer treatment have led to more personalized and focused approaches, but the high prevalence of cancer is still prevalent due to the aging population and the biology of cancer cells, which have difficulty repairing damage as people age.
Dr. Bilchik adds that while some cancers are more treatable, others such as pancreatic cancer remain resistant to chemotherapy and are often diagnosed at advanced stages. The increasing number of early-onset cancer diagnoses contributes to its continued status as the second leading cause of death. However, he remains optimistic that this will change with improved screening tests, a deeper understanding of cancer development, and access to newer, targeted therapies.
Marchese explains that although cancer is now more treatable than in the past, there is still no cure for most major cancers. Despite a 33% drop in cancer mortality since 1991, resulting in an estimated 3.8 million fewer deaths, there is still much to be done to prevent exposures and risks that lead to cancer. More cancers are being detected at earlier stages, and patients have more treatment options, but the rate of cancer development in the general population remains a concern.
3) Ways to Reduce the Risk of Cancer:
Dr. Bilchik suggests, "Preventing cancer involves adopting a healthy lifestyle which includes regular exercise, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, avoiding smoking and obesity, and reducing the consumption of red meat and processed foods."
Marchese advises, "To lower your cancer risk, it's important to understand your family history and identify any environmental or lifestyle factors that could increase your risk. Quit smoking and maintain a healthy diet, but also consider other ways to promote overall health, such as managing heart health and diabetes. Talk to your doctor to determine your primary cancer risk factors and ways to avoid them. Pay attention to potentially carcinogenic substances in your environment, such as radon, asbestos, smoke, or particulates."
4) Exploring the Connection: Frozen Embryos and Cancer Risk
A new study from four European countries - Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden - suggests a higher risk of childhood cancer in children born from frozen embryos. The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS Medicine, indicate that children born after frozen embryo transfer (FET) had a higher risk of childhood cancer than children born after fresh embryo transfer or spontaneous conception. Although the number of children with cancer was small, the results raise concerns given the growing use of FET, especially in the absence of clear medical indications.
Marchese says, "The research on the long-term health effects of children born from frozen embryos is limited. In the past, abnormal central nervous system development and leukemia have been the most commonly reported diseases associated with embryo freezing. According to the research, the individual risk for cancer is low. However, across all assisted reproduction techniques, there has been no increase in cancer rates."
5) Crucial Cancer Awareness for Individuals Below 50 Years of Age
According to Dr. Bilchik, "It is imperative to note that cancer is no longer limited to affecting only the elderly. The rates of cancer among people under 50 are on the rise, making it necessary to focus on lifestyle, nutrition, and exercise at a young age. Additionally, younger individuals should be informed about national screening guidelines for common cancers such as breast and colon cancer."
Marchese adds, "Despite the growing concern among those under 50 about cancer rates, it's important to remember that cancer mortality has been steadily declining. With improved treatments and more innovative clinical trials underway, people are now able to live longer and better lives after a cancer diagnosis. Although a cure may still be in the distance, the treatments for all cancers are becoming safer and more effective."