Cancer cases in younger people are rising sharply. Here are some preventive measures to take | CNN

Disturbing Increase in Cancer Cases Among Young People

In a disturbing worldwide trend, new cancer cases among young people have been increasing sharply.

Early-onset cancers, defined as cancer cases diagnosed in people under 50, increased globally by a staggering 79%.

In the United States, the American Cancer Society reported that the demographics of cancer patients are increasingly shifting from older individuals to middle-aged people. While adults older than 50 experienced a drop in overall cancer incidence from 1995 to 2020, there was a notable increase in people younger than 50.

Deadliest Cancers in Younger People

The types of early-onset cancer that cause the highest death toll and burden globally are breast cancer; tracheal, bronchus and lung cancer; and stomach and colorectal cancers, according to a 2023 study published in the journal BMJ Oncology.

These are similar statistics for older populations. In the United States, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer and breast cancer are the four top causes of cancer deaths. A report from the American Cancer Society especially highlighted colorectal cancer, which is now the leading cause of cancer death in men younger than 50 and the second in women under 50.

Reasons for Rising Cancer Cases in People Under 50

There are a number of hypotheses. Some researchers point to the escalating rates of obesity over the last few decades, which is associated with the risk of early-onset cancer. On a related note, the change in dietary habits, specifically the increase in consumption of ultraprocessed food, and sedentary lifestyles also are associated with higher cancer rates. Others speculate that there may be environmental factors at play, such as carcinogens released into the air, water and food supplies.

Screening for Cancer at Younger Ages

This is a complex question that I think is best answered by looking at recommendations for the population versus for the individual.

Guidelines from major medical organizations and federal policymaking bodies are based on what is recommended for people at average risk. Most people should follow these guidelines.

For instance, in the United States, the US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that people begin colon cancer screenings at age 45. The task force also issued a draft recommendation that women start mammograms at age 40. Both revisions represent changes to guidelines. Before 2021, people were advised to start colon cancer screenings at age 50. The mammogram change was only proposed last year and hasn’t been finalized. Before this recommendation, the guidance was for most women to begin mammograms at age 50.

Talking to Physicians about Cancer Screenings

Yes, and they should make sure to get the screenings that are recommended.

One in 3 people who are eligible for colon cancer screenings have never received any screening exams, according to the American Cancer Society. And as much as 59% of women forgo their annual mammogram, according to some surveys.

People may skip these tests for a number of reasons. They might be busy with work and caregiving responsibilities. Though the Affordable Care Act is supposed to cover preventive care, including cancer screenings, they may not have a primary care provider or face other barriers to accessing care. And they may think that they don’t need these tests because they are young, healthy and feeling just fine.

Steps to Reduce Cancer Risk

It’s essential that people know their risks. Specifically, they need to know what their family history is and whether they have other medical conditions or lifestyle factors that increase their risk of early-onset cancer.

Everyone should try to find out their family history of cancer. Are there first-degree relatives who have had cancers? Know their own medical history and ask their physician if a certain condition may increase their cancer risk. Also, be sure to mention all lifestyle factors, including smoking, drinking alcohol, dietary habits and physical activity.

Yes. Smoking and heavy alcohol intake are major risk factors. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake are important steps. As little as one or two minutes of vigorous exercise a day can lower cancer risk, as can reducing ultraprocessed food. It’s also important to note that these lifestyle changes not only reduce the risk of cancer but also are the same ones that lower the likelihood of heart disease and premature death.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

The article discusses the increasing cases of cancer among young people, which is directly related to the goal of promoting good health and well-being.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.

The target focuses on reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases, including cancer, through prevention and treatment. The article highlights the need for early screening and preventive measures to address the rising cases of cancer among young people.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disease.
• Indicator 3.4.2: Suicide mortality rate.

Although the article does not explicitly mention these indicators, they are relevant to measuring progress towards reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases, including cancer. These indicators can be used to track the mortality rates associated with cancer and assess the effectiveness of preventive measures.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: cnn.com

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