Why colorectal and other GI cancers are rising in people under 50
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
According to a recent study published in The British Journal of Surgery, researchers believe that factors like obesity, poor diet, and excessive alcohol consumption may be contributing to this rise. The incidence of these cancers is rising among individuals under the age of 50, which is a stark contrast to the previous trend of declining rates in older adults.
Understanding colorectal cancer and GI cancers
Colorectal cancer:
It is a type of cancer that starts in the colon, which is the longest part of the large intestine.
The colon is a crucial part of the digestive system, responsible for breaking down food so that the body can absorb nutrients. When abnormal cells grow in the colon, it can lead to colon cancer, a serious condition.
Gastrointestinal cancer:
GI cancers refer to a group of cancers that affect the digestive system, which includes organs like the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, colon, and rectum. These cancers can also occur in the other parts of the digestive system, such as the small intestine, gallbladder, and anus.
Rise of colorectal and GI cancers in young adults
Factors responsible for the rise of colorectal and GI cancer:
Increased exposure to carcinogens: Exposure to certain chemicals and substances in the environment may increase the risk of GI cancers.
Changes in gut microbiome: Alterations in the balance of gut bacteria may contribute to the development of GI cancers.
Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity may all contribute to the increased risk of GI cancers.
Changes in diet: A diet high in processed meat, sugar, and unhealthy fats may increase the risk of colon cancer.
Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyle and lack of regular exercise may also contribute to the increased risk
Genetic mutations: Some younger adults may be more likely to have genetic mutations that increase their risk of colorectal cancer.
Other GI cancers on the rise
In addition to colorectal cancer, other GI cancers are also increasing in younger adults, including:
Esophageal cancer:
Cancer of the esophagus, which is often linked to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and obesity.
Gastric cancer:
Cancer of the stomach, which is often linked to infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
Pancreatic cancer:
Cancer of the pancreas, which is often diagnosed at an advanced stage and has a poor prognosis.
How can you prevent the risk of GI cancers?
While the trend is concerning, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the risk of GI cancers:
If you're under 50, talk to your doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer, especially if you have a family history
Focus on having a whole, nutrient-dense food, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Eat a healthy diet.
Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of GI cancers.
Maintain your body weight through a combination of diet and exercise.
Also read |
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
25-07-2025
- Time of India
Shocking discovery: Common stomach bacteria may be linked to 12 million cancer cases
A startling new study has revealed that a common stomach bacteria could be responsible for nearly 12 million cancer cases among people born within a single decade. The bacterium, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), is already known to be a major cause of ulcers and chronic inflammation, but this new analysis, published in Nature Medicine, ties it directly to 76% of projected stomach cancer cases in those born between 2008 and 2017. Researchers estimate that 15.6 million people from this cohort will develop stomach cancer in their lifetimes, and H. pylori will be responsible for the majority of those diagnoses. Experts are calling for urgent global action to detect and eliminate this bacterial threat before it's too late. Cancer risks tied to H. pylori infection often go unnoticed in early years H. pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium that typically infects the stomach lining in childhood. While most people show no symptoms, it can cause long-term damage by leading to ulcers, inflammation, and, ultimately, cancer in some individuals. The bacteria is primarily transmitted through oral contact—such as kissing—or through exposure to contaminated vomit or stool. Despite its global presence, it often goes undiagnosed for years. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like TV providers are furious: this gadget gives you access to all channels Techno Mag Learn More Undo Chronic infections allow the bacteria to silently alter the stomach environment, increasing cancer risk over time. Cancer burden expected to rise, especially in Asia and Africa The study, led by researchers at the World Health Organization 's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), analyzed global data from 185 countries. Their projections indicate that up to 11.9 million stomach cancer cases caused by H. pylori could be diagnosed by the year 2101, which is when the youngest individuals in the studied group turn 84. Asia will see the greatest burden with around 8 million cases, while Europe is expected to see nearly half a million. Alarmingly, sub-Saharan Africa—currently with relatively low incidence—may see a sixfold increase due to aging populations and demographic shifts. Early detection could prevent up to 75% of cases Although stomach cancer is difficult to treat in its later stages, it is largely preventable. Researchers urge governments to implement screening and treatment programs for H. pylori infections, especially in high-risk regions. Early detection and simple antibiotic regimens could dramatically reduce the future cancer burden. The study estimates that prevention efforts could avert up to three-quarters of projected cases. As Dr. Jin Young Park, one of the study's authors, emphasized: 'It is essential that health authorities make gastric cancer prevention a priority and accelerate efforts to control it.'
Time of India
23-07-2025
- Time of India
5 countries with the highest rates of Stomach Cancer, and why
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a malignant tumor that develops in the stomach lining. It's the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer globally. Stomach cancer occurs worldwide, but certain nations experience significantly higher occurrences than others. Here are 5 such countries (and why) Mongolia Why Mongolia Tops the List: Stomach cancer has the highest age-standardised incidence rate in the world in Mongolia, at 35.5 per 100,000 people according to 2022 data. The age-standardised incidence rate in male populations reaches 53.0 per 100,000 people. The reasons behind this high incidence include: Traditional Mongolian diets consist of salted and smoked foods which increase stomach cancer risk. High levels of Helicobacter pylori bacteria infection exist in the population, and this bacterium is known to cause stomach cancer. Limited Healthcare Access: Early detection programs are less developed, leading to late diagnosis. Japan Why Japan Has High Rates: Japan reported an age-standardised incidence rate of 27.6 per 100,000 people in 2022, with 126,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The country continues to be among the regions most affected by stomach cancer. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo The traditional consumption of salty pickled and smoked foods in Japan's diet has historically elevated stomach cancer risk. Japan's large elderly population drives up cancer statistics, because stomach cancer affects older people more frequently. High Helicobacter pylori Infection: Despite public health efforts, this infection remains widespread. The implementation of stomach cancer screening programs in Japan allows for higher detection rates, which reveals the actual prevalence of the disease. South Korea South Korea's Standing: The country recorded 27.0 cases per 100,000 people in 2022 and reported approximately 29,000 new cases which makes it rank third. Intense Screening Programs: South Korea also has national cancer screening, which detects more cases. Traditional Korean foods containing salt, along with fermented ingredients may increase the risk of stomach cancer. Helicobacter pylori: Infection rates are a contributing factor. Better healthcare accessibility in South Korea results in more diagnosed cases of stomach cancer, but the risk factors continue to drive high incidence rates. Iran Why Iran is on the List: The age-standardised rate of stomach cancer in Iran stands at 19.4 cases per 100,000 people, above what Western nations typically experience. The combination of salted smoked foods and inadequate consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits, in the population. Helicobacter pylori Infection: High infection prevalence is a key risk factor. Geographic Factors: Certain regions have higher rates due to environmental factors. The availability of preventive healthcare is restricted in this area because screening and early detection services are not as widespread, as in Eastern Asian countries. Tajikistan Tajikistan's Stomach Cancer Rate: The age-standardised rate in Tajikistan equals 19.4 cases per 100,000 which corresponds to the Iranian rate. The people of this area follow a similar dietary pattern which includes salted and preserved foods. Helicobacter pylori Prevalence: High infection rates contribute. Socioeconomic Factors: Limited healthcare access and awareness reduce early diagnoses. Environmental Exposure: Possible exposure to carcinogens in some rural areas. Why These Countries Have High Rates The following elements consistently lead to elevated stomach cancer rates in these specific regions: Stomach cancer risk increases when people consume diets with high amounts of salted and smoked and preserved foods, because these foods damage the stomach lining and lead to infections. The bacterium Helicobacter pylori produces chronic stomach inflammation which functions as a worldwide leading cause of stomach cancer. This bacterium shows high prevalence rates in Asia together with Central Asia. Men develop stomach cancer at a rate that is roughly twice as high as women do, and the risk of stomach cancer grows more significant with age. These countries generally have older populations facing higher risks. The reported incidence rates in countries with advanced screening programs become higher due to early case detection, but such programs also help improve survival rates. The geographical presence of carcinogens in the environment, together with specific genetic traits in certain areas, raises the risk of stomach cancer. Other Parts of the World Show Lower Rates of This Disease North American and Northern European countries, together with parts of Africa experience stomach cancer at rates lower than 3 cases per 100,000 population. These regions tend to have: Lower Helicobacter pylori infection rates. People from these regions eat healthier food that contains less preserved products. Better sanitation and healthcare systems. More effective cancer prevention programs. Sources: World Cancer Research Fund 2022-2025 Stomach Cancer Statistics PubMed Central research
Economic Times
19-07-2025
- Economic Times
What seemed like heartburn after weight loss injections was actually cancer: Here's what happened
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a serious illness that often develops quietly. In many cases, it is ignored at first because its early signs feel like common digestion problems. A recent case reported by tells the story of a woman who was diagnosed with stomach cancer after suffering from ongoing heartburn. At first, she thought it was just acid reflux and didn't take it seriously. This woman had also been using weight loss injections, which may have hidden or worsened her symptoms. These injections are often seen as a quick way to lose fat, but they can come with serious health time went on, her heartburn got worse. She later found out that it was not just a digestion issue, it was stomach cancer. This shows how important it is to take ongoing digestive problems seriously and to speak to a doctor if symptoms don't go cancer happens when harmful (malignant) cells grow in the lining of the stomach. In the early stages, symptoms can be hard to spot and may include: Ongoing heartburn or acid reflux Indigestion or stomach pain Losing weight without trying Feeling sick or vomiting Feeling full quickly after eating Because these symptoms are similar to less serious issues, many people ignore them. This delay can lead to the cancer being found too late, when it's harder to treat. Doctors still don't know the exact cause, but some things may increase your risk of getting stomach cancer, such as: Family history of stomach cancer Infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria Long-term acid reflux (GERD) Ongoing stomach inflammation (gastritis) Past stomach ulcers or polyps Eating a lot of salty, fatty, smoked or pickled food Not eating enough fresh fruits and vegetables Being overweight or obese Smoking or using tobacco in any form Drinking too much alcohol Exposure to certain chemicals at work (like coal or rubber) Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus Heartburn now and then is common. But when it happens regularly, or becomes painful, it could be a sign of something more serious, like GERD or even stomach stomach acid keeps coming up and burning the stomach or food pipe, it can damage the lining. Over time, this damage may increase the chance of cancer. If heartburn lasts more than a few weeks or comes with other signs like weight loss or vomiting, it's best to get checked by a doctor right away. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
