Citing BBC on 29/4, scientists at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) and Imperial College London, UK, analyzed decades of public health trends. Their findings indicate that rates of smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and low fiber intake either decreased or remained stable. Meanwhile, overweight status has continuously risen since the 1990s, correlating with the surge in early-onset cancer cases. Excess fat tissue alters hormone levels, such as insulin, which then promotes the growth of malignant cells.

The study identified 11 cancer types showing a sharp increase in young adults, including: colorectal, thyroid, multiple myeloma, liver, kidney, gallbladder, pancreatic, endometrial, oral cavity, breast, and ovarian cancers. Of these, breast and colorectal cancers account for the largest numbers, with about 11,500 cases annually, while pancreatic and gallbladder cancers account for a lower proportion. Currently, one in 1,000 individuals aged 20 to 40 is diagnosed with cancer each year, which is lower than the one in 100 rate for the 50-70 age group.

The younger onset of cancer has perplexed the medical community, often leading to early warning signs being overlooked. Caroline Mousdale recounted that her son, Bradley Coombes, 23, from Portsmouth, was in excellent health and preparing to play semi-professional football. When Bradley experienced rapid weight loss, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools, doctors did not suspect cancer because the patient was so young. It took 18 months from the onset of symptoms for doctors to correctly diagnose the disease. By then, the colon tumor was so large it obstructed the endoscopy camera. Bradley later died despite surgical intervention and chemotherapy.

Caroline Mousdale and her son Bradley Coombes, who died of colon cancer at age 23. Photo: *Caroline Mousdale*

However, scientists note that obesity does not fully explain the causes of the disease. For instance, in 100 new cases of colorectal cancer, obesity is only a contributing factor in about 20 cases. Professor Marc Gunter from Imperial College London stated that researchers are continuing to investigate other factors. They are questioning the role of ultra-processed foods, forever chemicals (PFAS), antibiotic overuse, sugary drinks, herbicides, environmental pollution, and changes in gut microbiome. Improved screening capabilities within the healthcare system also contribute to detecting more cases earlier than before.

Experts advise people to proactively change their lifestyle habits to prevent disease rather than being alarmed by the new data. Professor Montserrat Garcia Closas from ICR emphasized that individuals can fully control risks by maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly. The simple act of quitting smoking alone has reduced nearly 40% of the global cancer burden.

Binh Minh (According to BBC)