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A stark warning has been issued by a leading health expert from the University of Sydney regarding the alarming rise in early-onset cancers, attributing the surge to factors such as obesity, poor dietary habits, and physical inactivity. The revelation comes amidst a global trend where cancers once associated with older demographics are increasingly affecting younger populations.
Robyn Ward, Executive Dean and Pro Vice-Chancellor Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney, highlighted the concerning trend during a recent interview with IANS. Ward pointed out that over the last three decades, there has been a staggering increase in the incidence of cancers striking individuals before they reach their 40s or 50s. These cancers, including those affecting the gallbladder, colon, kidney, and pancreas, are now being diagnosed in younger age groups at an unprecedented rate.
“Globally there has been a significant rise in some types of cancer in younger people. For instance, in the 30- to 39-year-old age group in the period 1991 to 2021, the rate of cancers of the gallbladder has increased by 200 per cent, uterine by 158 per cent, colorectal by 153 per cent, kidney by 89 per cent, and pancreas by 83 per cent,” Ward explained.
The underlying causes, according to Ward, are largely attributed to lifestyle factors such as obesity, unhealthy dietary choices, and sedentary behavior. She emphasized that the current generation of young adults, often referred to as millennials, are facing a significantly higher risk of cancer compared to previous generations.
Robyn Ward further noted that while cancer incidence is generally higher in men than women, men are also more likely to succumb to the disease. However, the distribution of cancer types varies by gender, with prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers being more prevalent among males, while breast, lung, and colorectal cancers are predominant among females.
In terms of prevention and early detection, Ward underscored the importance of targeted interventions. She highlighted cervical and colorectal cancers as prime examples where early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. Ward stressed the importance of vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) to prevent cervical cancer, as well as the implementation of national screening programs for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers.
While current screening programs are primarily based on age, Ward proposed the adoption of modern technologies such as genomics, big data, and artificial intelligence (AI) to develop personalized, risk-based screening initiatives. By leveraging these advancements, healthcare systems can tailor screening protocols to individual risk factors, ultimately improving outcomes and reducing the burden of cancer on society.
The call to action from experts like Robyn Ward underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of the growing cancer epidemic among younger populations. With obesity, poor diet, and physical inactivity identified as key drivers, concerted efforts towards promoting healthier lifestyles and implementing targeted screening measures are essential in curbing the rise of early-onset cancers.
