Cancer is rising in under-50s – but the causes are a mystery

New research indicates a nearly 80% increase in cancer diagnoses among under-50s globally over the past three decades, with breast cancer being the most common early-onset cancer. The study highlights a rise in cancers typically associated with older age groups, such as bowel, stomach, and pancreatic cancers, in younger adults. Despite the increase, the causes remain largely unknown, though lifestyle factors and genetic conditions are considered contributors. The study calls for greater awareness and urgent research into early-onset cancers, emphasizing the importance of early detection and healthy lifestyle choices to mitigate risks.

Cancer is becoming more common among adults under 50 years. And experts can’t figure out why

Cancer is increasingly affecting adults under 50, with a 79% rise in early-onset cancer cases from 1990 to 2019. Breast cancer is the most common, while prostate and throat cancers are rising fastest. Deaths from early-onset cancers have also increased, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The causes remain unclear, though lifestyle factors and genetic conditions play a role. Greater awareness and urgent research are needed to address this growing concern.

Cancer is rising in under-50s – but the causes are a mystery

New research indicates a nearly 80% increase in cancer diagnoses among under-50s globally over the past three decades, with breast, bowel, stomach, uterine, and pancreatic cancers becoming more common in younger adults. The study, which analyzed data from 204 countries between 1990 and 2019, found that early-onset cancer cases are expected to rise by an additional 31% by 2030. While lifestyle factors and genetic conditions contribute to the increase, the exact causes remain unclear. The research highlights the need for greater awareness and urgent investigation into early-onset cancers, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where death rates are higher.

Why are cancers increasing among those under 50?

New research indicates a significant increase in cancer diagnoses among individuals under 50 over the past 30 years, with an 80% rise in cases. The study highlights a concerning trend of younger adults developing cancers typically associated with older age groups, such as intestinal, stomach, breast, uterine, and pancreatic cancers. The research, covering data from 204 countries between 1990 and 2019, predicts a further 31% increase in early-onset cancer cases by 2030. Lifestyle factors like diet, alcohol, tobacco use, and obesity are linked to this rise, though genetic factors and other unknown causes also play a role. The study underscores the need for increased awareness and early detection to improve prognosis and calls for urgent national and international research to understand the underlying causes.

Cancer is rising in the under 50s but the causes are a mystery

Over the last few decades, cancer cases in individuals under 50 have tripled, with a nearly 80% increase in diagnoses globally. This rise includes cancers typically seen in older adults, such as bowel, stomach, breast, uterine, and pancreatic cancers, many of which have low survival rates due to late-stage diagnosis. The study analyzed data from 204 countries between 1990 and 2019, revealing a 79% increase in early-onset cancer cases and predicting a further 31% rise by 2030. While lifestyle factors like diet, alcohol consumption, smoking, and obesity may contribute, the exact causes remain unclear. The research underscores the need for greater awareness and urgent investigation into early-onset cancers, emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle and early detection.