The appearance of cancer in younger people

A worrying fact, my dear reader, has become frequent in conversation circles. We are increasingly seeing younger people with cancer. And this increase in cancer rates among people under 50 has been a cause for growing concern, as in the past we saw it much more in older people. This phenomenon, known as early-onset cancer, is becoming more common, especially among men and women in their 40s.

According to a recent article published in the British Journal of Oncology entitled “Global trends in incidence, death, burden and risk factors of early-onset cancer from 1990 to 2019” it shows THAT rates of early-onset cancer have increased for several types of cancers, such as breast, uterine, colorectal and prostate. For example, in 2019, early-onset colorectal cancer occurred at a rate of 5.7 per 100,000 people, up from 3.5 in 1990. Breast cancer also increased to 13.7 per 100,000 people, up from 9. 6 in 1990.

There are several factors that contribute to the development of cancer, such as genetics, environment and lifestyle habits. Some of us inherit genetic mutations or are exposed to harmful substances in the womb. Furthermore, factors such as exposure to pollutants, consumption of ultra-processed foods, which is increasing in Brazil, viral infections, alcohol consumption, exposure to UV rays, smoking and obesity can also increase the risk.

However, we must know our family history as it is crucial to determine the risk of cancer, whatever it may be. About a quarter of patients with early-onset colorectal cancer have a family history that would justify screening before age 45. This means that it is possible to detect or even prevent these cancers early through early screening. That’s why visits to the doctor become essential after the age of 40.

Furthermore, several studies show that almost half of all cancers are preventable. Therefore, we must take care of ourselves! Modifiable risk factors, such as tobacco consumption, consumption of sugary drinks, younger age at first menstruation, older age at first birth and use of contraceptive pills, are also associated with an increased risk of cancer. Isn’t this life difficult?

In addition to having a lifestyle and good diet that will greatly help reduce cancer risk for any known risk factors, early cancer screening is crucial. Do you believe that less than 20% of people aged 45 to 49 are up to date with their colorectal cancer screening, and only about 66% of women aged 40 and over are up to date with their breast cancer screening.

Cancer in younger people is an alert to the importance of adopting healthy lifestyles, knowing your family history and carrying out early screening in addition to frequent visits to the doctor. By taking preventive measures and identifying any signs of cancer early, it is possible to significantly reduce the risk and increase the chances of successful treatment.

As I have been saying in my columns here, we will live a long time due to the advancement of medicine, exercise physiology and technology, but these factors can be worked on so that we can increasingly live with quality. Care must be daily! Because after it happens, the problem that could be tracked will be greater. So, if you haven’t seen a doctor, the time has come. To the next!