Younger Generations Face Increased Cancer Rates Across 17 Types
A recent study published in Lancet Public Health has uncovered a concerning trend: millennials and Generation X are facing a higher risk of cancer compared to older generations. The research, led by cancer epidemiologist Hyuna Sung from the American Cancer Society, reveals that younger individuals are more likely to be diagnosed with 17 types of cancer, including nine that had been previously declining in older adults.
5 Key Points
- Gen X and millennials show increased risk for 17 cancer types
- Risk is 2-3 times higher for pancreatic, kidney, and small intestine cancers in those born in 1990 vs. 1955
- Nine cancer types previously declining in older adults are now rising in younger generations
- Endometrial cancer shows the fastest growth in both diagnoses and mortality
- Overall, cancer mortality rates remain stable or declining for most types
Unprecedented Rise in Cancer Diagnoses Among Younger Adults
The study, which analyzed cancer diagnosis and mortality data from two major databases, encompassed 34 types of cancer, including nearly 24 million diagnoses and over 7 million deaths between 2000 and 2019. Researchers grouped individuals by birth year in five-year intervals to observe how cancer rates changed across different generations.
Dr. Andrea Cercek, a gastrointestinal medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, who was not involved in the study, emphasized the significance of these findings: “The most important thing it tells us is there is something that changed for the group of individuals born after this period. They have been exposed to some environmental or lifestyle factors leading to this shift.”
The study revealed that for some cancers, such as pancreatic, kidney, and small intestine cancers, the risk was two to three times higher in individuals born in 1990 compared to those born in 1955. Liver cancer diagnoses in women followed a similar pattern.
Reversing Trends: Cancers on the Rise Again
After decades of decline, nine types of cancer have begun to climb again in younger generations:
- Colorectal cancer
- Endometrial cancer
- Non-cardia gastric cancer
- Gallbladder cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Anal cancer
- Estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancers
- HIV-linked Kaposi sarcoma
While mortality rates have declined or remained stable for most cancers in younger age groups, increases were observed for endometrial, intrahepatic bile duct, gallbladder, colorectal, and testicular cancers, as well as liver cancer among women.
Investigating Potential Causes for Increased Cancer Risk
Researchers are still uncertain about the exact causes behind this alarming trend, but several factors are under investigation:
- Obesity Epidemic: Dr. Otis Brawley, Bloomberg Distinguished Professor of Oncology and Epidemiology at Johns Hopkins University, points out that obesity is likely a leading cause. “All of these cancers are linked to the obesity epidemic. We know that’s the second-leading cause of cancer right now, behind tobacco use,” he stated. Obesity rates in the U.S. have risen dramatically since the 1980s, with over 40% of adults and about 20% of children and adolescents now classified as obese.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Increased sedentary behavior among younger generations is another potential factor contributing to higher cancer risks.
- Antibiotic Overuse: The overuse of antibiotics is under scrutiny as a possible link, particularly for colorectal cancer. Antibiotics alter the gut microbiome, which is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers.
- Environmental Factors: Researchers are also considering potential chemical exposures or other environmental agents that may contribute to the rise in cancer rates.
- Dietary Changes: Shifts in dietary habits across generations could play a role in the increased cancer risk.
Implications for Future Cancer Trends
Hyuna Sung, the lead researcher, emphasizes the significance of these findings for future cancer trends: “What is happening in these generations can be considered a bellwether for future cancer trends.” This underscores the importance of ongoing research and preventive measures to address the rising cancer rates among younger adults.
While the increase in cancer rates among millennials and Gen X is concerning, it’s important to note that many of these cancers remain relatively rare in young people. Dr. Brawley reminds us that despite the alarming increases, most cancer diagnoses still occur in individuals over 50 years old.
FAQ
Q: Do you qualify for a cancer lawsuit?
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Q. According to the study, Which generation is at higher cancer risk?
A. The study found that both Generation X and millennials face a higher risk of certain cancers compared to older generations.
Q. How many types of cancer showed increased risk in younger generations?
A. The research identified 17 types of cancer with increasing incidence in younger people, including nine that had previously been declining in older adults.
Q. What is considered the leading cause of the increased cancer risk?
A. While multiple factors are being investigated, obesity is considered a leading cause of the increased cancer risk among younger generations.
Q. Are cancer mortality rates also increasing for younger generations?
A. While mortality rates have declined or remained stable for most cancers, increases were observed for specific types, including endometrial, colorectal, and liver cancers in women.
Q. What can individuals do to reduce their cancer risk?
A. While not explicitly stated in the article, maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, and avoiding tobacco use are generally recommended to reduce cancer risk. Consulting with healthcare providers for personalized advice is also essential.
Citations:
Sullivan, K. (2024, July 31). Gen X, millennials face higher risk of 17 cancers than older generations. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/cancer/cancer-gen-x-millennials-17-types-reverse-trend-rcna164376
