Today in Focus What are ultra-processed foods doing to our bodies?
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Oct 9, 2025 
Devi Sridhar, a Professor of Global Public Health at the University of Edinburgh, delves into the alarming rise of bowel cancer in younger individuals, linking it to ultra-processed foods. She defines what these foods are and how they infiltrate our diets. Devi highlights the substantial percentage of calories from UPFs and discusses their health impacts, including obesity and cancer risks. She also addresses regulatory challenges and the food industry's response, making a case for government intervention and better labeling to protect public health.
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Young Patient Dismissed Before Diagnosis
- Megan's story illustrates that young people can be dismissed by doctors before being diagnosed with colon cancer.
- She was told she was too young, then discovered stage 3 colon cancer at 24.
Cancer Rising In Younger Generations
- Cancer is shifting younger, with steepest rises in people under 50 across developed countries.
- The pattern suggests generational and environmental changes rather than only genetic causes.
Digestive Cancers Escaping Early Detection
- Colorectal cancers are increasing particularly in the rectum and colon, affecting people not routinely screened.
- Younger patients miss screening invitations, so diagnoses often occur at later stages.
