Gut health may play a role in rising cancer rates among young adults

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Recent research indicates a concerning rise in cancer rates among young adults with potential links to gut health. Studies suggest that dietary habits, lifestyle changes, and environmental influences might impact the gut environment, potentially raising the risk of cancers such as colorectal, breast, prostate, uterine, stomach, and pancreatic. Obesity can disrupt the balance of microbes in the gut, while alcohol consumption may lead to inflammation and the creation of harmful compounds. By investigating the connection between gut health and cancer, scientists aim to better understand these trends and develop targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Source

Zhao J, Xu L, Sun J, et al. Global trends in incidence, death, burden and risk factors of early-onset cancer from 1990 to 2019. BMJ Oncology 2023;2:e000049. doi:10.1136/bmjonc-2023-000049

Additional Reading

https://www.wsj.com/health/healthcare/young-people-cancer-causes-gut-science-21375280

https://www.mskcc.org/news/why-is-cancer-rising-among-young-adults

https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/cancer-articles/why-are-more-young-people-getting-cancer