Colorectal cancer is increasingly common among young people, becoming a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. for individuals under 50 and the third most common type of cancer in Brazil.
Colorectal cancer is becoming more prevalent among younger individuals, a trend that is alarming given the recent high-profile cases including the deaths of Brazilian singer Preta Gil and actor James Van Der Beek. In the United States, colorectal cancer has become the leading cause of cancer-related mortality for those under the age of 50, while in Brazil, it ranks as the third most common cancer with over 45,000 new cases expected annually. Projections suggest that mortality rates from this disease could increase by 36% in Brazil by the year 2040.
A global study has indicated that, in 27 out of 50 countries analyzed, there has been a rise in the incidence of colorectal cancer among individuals younger than 50. Researchers are trying to understand the root causes of this concerning trend. Preliminary findings suggest that lifestyle choices are a significant factor, particularly dietary habits that include high consumption of red or processed meats along with insufficient fiber intake. Additional risk factors noted are obesity, sedentary behavior, and excessive alcohol consumption, which contribute to the overall rising incidence of this disease among the young.
Scientists continue to investigate the reasons behind the increasing cases of colorectal cancer in younger populations, emphasizing the need for awareness and potential changes in lifestyle to mitigate these rising trends. Public health initiatives may need to address dietary habits and promote regular check-ups to catch this disease early and potentially save lives in this vulnerable age group.
