In a troubling development, around 16% of the 20 million people diagnosed with cancer globally in 2022 were under the age of 50. Traditionally considered a disease that afflicts older adults, the incidence of cancer among younger populations has skyrocketed— increasing by 79% between 1990 and 2019, as highlighted by research published in the British Medical Journal in 2023. This rapid uptick raises urgent questions about the factors at play, as genetic explanations seem insufficient to account for such a rapid increase, according to Tracey Woodruff, director of the program on reproductive health and the environment at UCSF.

Wealth Disparities and Rising Rates

The majority of these “early-onset” cases appear to disproportionately affect individuals in wealthier countries. Kathryn Bradbury, a senior research fellow at the University of Auckland, notes that younger populations, who are primarily non-smokers, are seeing alarming rates of cancer. Mary Beth Terry, a professor at Columbia University, emphasizes that approximately two-thirds of cancers in this age group occur in women.

Many of the most prevalent cancers among individuals under 50 include colorectal, breast, and skin cancer. From 1990 to 2019, prostate cancer and nasopharyngeal cancer were among the fastest-growing early-onset cancers, while breast, stomach, and bowel cancers led to significant mortality rates.

Diet and Increasing Cancer Risk

One significant area of concern is the consumption of processed meats and ultra-processed foods (UPFs). A notable initiative, called the Prospect study, has been launched by Cancer Research UK and other organizations to investigate the global increase of colorectal cancer in younger populations. This trend is particularly exacerbated in England, where rates of colorectal cancer are increasing more rapidly than most other countries, surpassed only by New Zealand, Chile, and Puerto Rico.

Processed meats, classified as Group 1 carcinogens, are known to contain harmful compounds like nitrates and nitrites. Although past animal studies have illustrated that these compounds can damage bowel cells, proving the same effects in humans has proven more elusive. Additional risks arise from cooking these meats at high temperatures, releasing harmful chemicals linked to cellular damage.

The rise of ultra-processed foods—accounting for 50-60% of daily caloric intake in high-income countries—also raises alarm. A U.S. study found that men with the highest consumption of UPFs had a 29% greater risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those with the lowest. However, as Bradbury points out, discussing UPFs as a uniform category can be misleading, as some items, like wholemeal bread, while classified as UPFs, can still be healthy.

The Hidden Dangers: Forever Chemicals and Obesity

The increase in breast cancer cases among those under 50 appears to defy traditional risk factors like obesity, which has doubled globally since 1990. One line of inquiry focuses on reproductive factors—having children and breastfeeding are believed to provide protection against breast cancer. However, the proliferation of breast cancer cases persists even in countries with high fertility rates.

Another vital player in this alarming trend is PFAS, commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.” Ubiquitous in modern life—from food packaging to household products—these compounds mimic hormones and can disrupt endocrine functions, potentially escalating the risk of breast cancer. Research has indicated a troubling correlation between PFAS exposure and various cancers, including breast cancer.

Skin Cancer: A Silent Threat?

Skin cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers among those under 50, with ultraviolet (UV) radiation being the primary culprit. Despite decades of awareness campaigns about sun safety, adherence to protective measures remains a concern, particularly among younger populations, who also tend to frequent tanning salons more often.

However, it is worth noting that there is growing debate regarding the overdiagnosis of melanoma in some countries, fueled by increased screening and diagnostic thresholds that may lead to misleading statistics about actual mortality rates and cancer incidences.

Taking Action: Lifestyle Choices Matter

Regardless of cancer type, adopting healthier lifestyle choices can significantly reduce risk. Experts recommend eliminating smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, consuming a balanced diet, and practicing sun safety.

As we dive deeper into the factors driving this rising cancer crisis in younger populations, awareness and proactive measures are paramount to combat this ever-growing threat. What changes are you prepared to make to protect yourself against rising cancer risks?