ASHNA PATEL --- Cancer diagnoses among the young adult population are increasing worldwide, particularly those under the age of 50. Under the age of 50 includes individuals aged anywhere from 14 to 49 years. According to a study conducted in 204 countries, there was an increase of 79.1% in early-onset cancer diagnoses between the years 1990 and 2019. Breast cancer still remains the most common type of cancer to affect young adults. However, gastrointestinal cancers, which include cancers of the colon and appendix, have shown the highest increase with the rate rising by 15%. A significant concern of the prevalence of cancer among younger people is that they have an increased risk of the cancer metastasizing. Research is still being conducted on the specific underlying causes of early-onset cancer, but some factors that play a role are alcohol and tobacco use, obesity, lack of exercise, unhealthy diet (low in fruit and vegetables but high in red meat and salt) , poor sleep, and exposure to carcinogens. Additionally, access to medical care plays a crucial role; there is a severe lack of cancer screenings among the young adult population. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a type of gastrointestinal cancer, and it ranks as one of the most deadly cancers. For those at average risk of colorectal cancer, experts suggest getting screened at age 45, but most adults do not get screened at that age. Genetic predispositions are yet another factor to consider as 25% of individuals with early-onset colorectal cancer have a family history of the disease. This health issue requires immediate attention as some experts are describing the rise in early-onset cancer as a “potential pandemic”. By implementing preventative strategies and early detection, the rate of early-onset cancer can be reduced.
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