What Next TBD: Why Are More Young People Getting Cancer?
Aug 2, 2024
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Dylan Scott, a senior correspondent and editor for Vox, joins the discussion on the alarming rise of cancer among young people. They explore the pressing need for updated screening protocols and the potential of new blood tests, like the FDA-approved Shield Blood Test. The conversation delves into risk factors such as obesity, environmental toxins, and lifestyle choices contributing to this trend. Scott emphasizes the importance of societal responsibility in addressing cancer, advocating for a holistic approach beyond individual health choices.
The rise in colorectal cancer cases among individuals under 50 necessitates updated screening guidelines and increased accessibility to preventive measures.
New non-invasive testing methods, like the Shield Blood Test, show promise in improving early detection while addressing screening hesitance among younger populations.
Deep dives
The Importance and Challenges of Colonoscopies
Colonoscopy is a critical procedure for colorectal cancer screening, typically recommended starting at age 45. The preparation for a colonoscopy is rigorous and often unpleasant, requiring dietary restrictions and the intake of laxatives to ensure a clear examination. During the procedure, a doctor uses a telescope-like instrument to identify any abnormal growths, which can be precancerous or cancerous. While colonoscopy remains the most accurate screening method, a new FDA-approved blood test aims to complement this process by identifying genetic markers associated with tumors, though it currently cannot detect early-stage cancers as effectively.
Emerging Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer Detection
The Shield Blood Test, developed by Guardant Health, represents a promising advancement in cancer detection by identifying circulating tumor DNA in the bloodstream. While it demonstrates a high accuracy rate for detecting advanced cancers, its ability to catch early-stage cancers is limited due to lower circulating DNA levels. The appeal of a blood test lies in its non-invasiveness, which could potentially increase screening rates among younger individuals hesitant about traditional methods like colonoscopies. This shift towards less invasive testing may help address the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in people under 50 and improve early detection rates.
Rising Cancer Rates and the Need for Systemic Change
Recent studies reveal a concerning increase in colorectal cancer cases among individuals under 50, with one in five new patients diagnosed in this age group. Factors contributing to this rise may include lifestyle changes, dietary habits, and environmental exposures, although the precise causes remain unclear. Current screening practices must adapt to account for this trend, as younger individuals often do not receive regular screenings, resulting in worse outcomes. A broader societal approach is necessary, focusing on dietary education, environmental factors, and healthcare accessibility to effectively address this growing health crisis.
The age when you need to start being screened for cancers may need to be updated, as rates among younger people are on the rise. New testing methods could make the process a lot easier than, say, a colonoscopy - but they’re not perfect.
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