Western Diet Linked to Rising GI Cancer Rates in Young Adults
A new study published in the British Journal of Surgery has revealed that gastrointestinal (GI) cancer rates are increasing among young adults, with the “Western diet” and lifestyle choices being identified as the primary contributors to the trend.
The research highlights that young generations are more susceptible to these conditions due to environmental factors rather than genetic predisposition. Lead researcher Sara Char, M.D., from the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, attributes the rise to shared risk factors such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking.
Colorectal cancer is the most prevalent form of early-onset GI cancer, although pancreatic, esophageal, gastric, biliary, appendiceal, and neuroendocrine cancers are also on the rise in adults under 50. According to previous studies, individuals born in 1990 have a significantly higher risk of developing colon and rectal cancer compared to those born in 1950.
Experts like Paul Oberstein, M.D., from NYU Langone’s Perlmutter Cancer Center, emphasize that dietary choices, including higher intake of red and processed meats, processed and added sugars, and highly processed grains, play a critical role in increasing colon cancer risk. Oberstein recommends further research to explore these factors and the importance of following recommended screening guidelines and seeking medical attention for any symptoms.
Young individuals can take proactive steps to prevent these cancers, such as avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, reducing red meat consumption, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy body weight.
Health organizations continue to encourage early screening and public awareness to combat these rising cancer rates and improve outcomes for those at risk.
While the incidence of colon cancer in this group overall remains low, Oberstein advocates for more research to determine the exact factors contributing to this increase, including the role of diet, vitamin supplements, alcohol, and other substances we ingest.
The study also underscores the importance of following colon cancer screening guidelines, which begin at age 45 for most people. Individuals experiencing changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained back or abdominal pain, or unintentional weight loss should seek medical attention promptly for an “urgent evaluation” as recommended by lead researcher Sara Char.