This surprising rate of higher risk of cancer in young adults has been primarily early-onset. It’s also apparent that rising cancer rates in young adults are more prominent in those with a less healthy lifestyle. This includes those that are less physically active and eat processed foods.
Here's what you need to know about the trend of rising cancer rates.
Why Cancer Rates Are Rising
While early-onset rates of cancer are rising, it is important to mention that the chance of dying has declined. It’s also been established that young adults remain at high risk. There is a multitude of factors that can influence cancer in these instances. In addition to viewing genetic history, doctors have turned to researching the relationship between the high risk of cancer and lifestyle. There is a clear indicator that a higher risk of cancer correlates to being sedentary, smoking, eating an unhealthy diet, and obesity.
With an unhealthy lifestyle, the immune system becomes disrupted and cells lose their ability to fight off afflictions and protect the body. Fortunately, doctors have become increasingly efficient in finding cancer earlier with advanced screening tests. This, along with other factors, has led to a mortality drop of 33% since 1991.
Reducing the Risk of Cancer
Once again, lifestyle is a key factor. As mentioned, physicians have established that an active, healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of cancer.
These lifestyle changes include not smoking, exercising, and eating a balanced diet. Doctors also recommend reducing red meat intake and avoiding dangerous chemicals in your environment.