Why are young people getting colon cancer? | Dr. Andy Chan

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Jul 25, 2024

Dr. Andy Chan, a Professor at Harvard Medical School and an expert in gastrointestinal cancer, tackles the alarming rise of colon cancer in those under 50. He reveals how changes in diet and gut health may be significant factors behind this trend. Dr. Chan discusses the crucial role of the gut microbiome, the impact of obesity, and the dangers of antibiotic overuse. He also emphasizes the importance of early detection and lifestyle adjustments in combating this growing health crisis.

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INSIGHT

Colon Cancer Trends

Colon cancer rates are declining for people over 50, but rising for younger people.
By 2030, it's projected to be the leading cancer-related death for those under 50.

INSIGHT

Colon Cancer Risk Factors

Colon cancer risk exists for those under 50, linked to gut microbiome and inflammation.
Cooking methods affect the risk, and dietary changes can generally lower cancer risk.

INSIGHT

Colon Cancer Misconception

It's a misconception that colon cancer only affects older people.
Since the 1990s, there's been a sharp increase in cases among those under 50.

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Rates of colorectal cancer have declined in people over 65 but doubled among people under 50 in the last few decades. By 2030 it’s expected to be the leading cancer-related death in this age group.

In today’s episode, gastrointestinal cancer and prevention specialist, Dr. Andy Chan, explains how changes in the gut microbiome could be to blame.

Dr. Chan discusses the critical role your diet plays in cancer risk, how your gut microbiome can influence the development of colon cancer and the steps you can take to lower your risk.

Dr. Andy Chan is a Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Program Director for Gastroenterology training at Massachusetts General Hospital.

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Timecodes:

00:00 Introduction

04:00 What is colon cancer?

05:20 How does cancer develop?

08:50 How common is colon cancer?

11:00 Demographics and shifting trends

14:00 Leading cause of cancer death for men under 50

15:32 Why are cancer rates rising in younger people

17:10 The role of diet and obesity

19:40 Does alcohol have an impact?

21:10 What is metabolic health and why does it matter?

25:10 Gut health and colon cancer

27:50 Evidence from animal studies

33:43 Why overuse of antibiotics can be harmful

38:15 Screening recommendations and methods

44:40 Can changing your diet reduce risk?

49:50 Should we avoid red meat?

53:28 Does physical activity reduce risk?

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Mentioned in today’s episode:

Influence of the Gut Microbiome, Diet, and Environment on Risk of Colorectal Cancer, from Gastroenterology
Reducing Risk for Colorectal Cancer, from Center for Disease Control & Prevention
Colorectal cancer statistics, 2017, from CA Cancer Journal
Association Between the Sulfur Microbial Diet and Risk of Colorectal Cancer, from Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Fusobacterium nucleatum and colorectal cancer: From phenomenon to mechanism, from Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology

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Episode transcripts are available here.