0
0
New Delhi, June 24, 2024
The increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods and sedentary lifestyles are contributing to a significant rise in cancer cases among young Indian adults. This alarming trend was highlighted by medical experts on Sunday, who emphasized the urgent need for lifestyle changes and environmental interventions.
Dr. Rahul Bhargava, Director and Head of the Department of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, expressed grave concerns about the impact of poor lifestyle choices on young adults’ health. “Ultra-processed foods and sedentary lifestyles are emerging as significant contributors to the rising cancer rates among young Indians. The high intake of these foods, laden with unhealthy additives, combined with physical inactivity, is creating a health crisis,” he said. Dr. Bhargava stressed the importance of adopting healthier dietary habits and an active lifestyle to combat this disturbing trend.
A recent study by the Cancer Mukt Bharat Foundation, a Delhi-based non-profit organization, revealed that 20 percent of cancer cases in India are now diagnosed in individuals below the age of 40. The study also found a notable gender disparity, with men constituting 60 percent of these young cancer patients and women making up the remaining 40 percent. This difference is attributed to higher rates of tobacco use, occupational exposure, and lifestyle choices among men in India.
Dr. Ashish Gupta, Principal Investigator and Senior Oncologist at Unique Hospital Cancer Center in Delhi, echoed these concerns. “In our country, escalating rates of obesity, changes in dietary habits—specifically the increase in consumption of ultra-processed food—and sedentary lifestyles are associated with higher cancer rates,” Dr. Gupta explained. He emphasized the urgent need for lifestyle interventions to address the rising cancer rates among young Indians. As the head of the Cancer Mukt Bharat Campaign, he called for a combined effort from the government, healthcare professionals, and the community to tackle this growing health crisis.
Environmental pollution also plays a critical role in the increasing cancer cases. India’s cities suffer from high levels of pollution, exposing individuals to carcinogenic substances through air and water. This exposure significantly increases cancer risk, adding another layer of complexity to the health challenges faced by young Indians.
“Policies promoting clean air and water, regular physical activity, and access to nutritious food must be prioritized,” Dr. Gupta urged. He also highlighted the need for improved healthcare infrastructure to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. The doctors collectively called for a holistic approach, involving lifestyle changes and environmental improvements, to curb the rising cancer rates among young adults in India.
The increasing prevalence of cancer among younger populations is a stark reminder of the consequences of modern lifestyle choices and environmental factors. Immediate and concerted efforts are required to address these issues and promote healthier living standards across the country.
