David Cox, a freelance science writer and former neuroscientist, unpacks the alarming rise in cancer cases among those under 50. He explores the increasing impact of modern diets, including ultra-processed foods and microplastics, on health. The conversation delves into personal stories, like a young mother's battle with colorectal cancer, highlighting urgent needs for early detection. Cox also emphasizes the role of delayed childbirth on rising breast cancer rates and the slow response from the scientific community in raising awareness and funding for research.
Cancer cases among those under 50 have surged nearly 80% in the past 30 years, raising serious health concerns globally.
Potential causes for this alarming trend include dietary changes, poor sleep quality, and environmental factors, necessitating urgent research and awareness.
Deep dives
The Alarming Rise in Cancer Rates Among Young Adults
Cancer cases in people under 50 have surged by nearly 80% worldwide over the last 30 years, highlighting a troubling trend in modern health. This increase has predominantly affected young adults who were previously thought to be at lower risk, exemplified by the experiences of individuals like Natalie Phelps, who was diagnosed with stage four colorectal cancer at 38. Data from electronic health records has revealed that this rise is not limited to one type of cancer, as multiple studies indicate significant increases in various cancers, including breast, pancreatic, and prostate cancers. Oncologists are increasingly concerned about the aggressive nature of these cancers, which often go undiagnosed until they reach advanced stages due to a lack of awareness regarding their prevalence in younger populations.
Potential Factors Behind the Increase in Young Cancer Diagnoses
Several potential factors driving the increase in cancer among younger populations are being explored, but no definitive conclusions have been reached. Oncologists suggest that changes in diet, particularly the rise of ultra-processed foods, obesity, and environmental factors like artificial light exposure, may contribute significantly to this trend. Additionally, modern lifestyles characterized by poor sleep quality and antibiotic exposure could be altering gut microbiomes, leading to an elevated risk of developing certain cancers. With the complexity of these factors, ongoing research and data analysis are necessary to identify concrete causes and effective preventive measures.
Need for Increased Awareness and Focus on Young Cancer Patients
There is an urgent need for heightened awareness among both medical professionals and the general public regarding the signs and symptoms of cancer in younger adults. Many oncologists advocate for early screening protocols to be adjusted for younger individuals, particularly for cancers like colorectal cancer, which currently has screening guidelines that start at age 50. The lack of recognition that young, seemingly healthy individuals can develop aggressive cancers leads to delayed diagnoses, as healthcare providers may attribute their symptoms to less serious conditions. To combat this growing trend, educating both healthcare workers and the public, alongside increased funding for research, is essential to prevent further reversals in the progress made against cancer.
The number of cancer cases among the under-50s around the world appears to have risen sharply in the past 30 years. Studies have shown that there are rising cases of breast, colorectal and other cancers in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s. But what is driving the increase in younger adults getting cancer and can anything be done to stop it?
Presenter Jonny Dymond speaks to freelance health journalist David Cox about what scientists think could be driving this worrying trend.
The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via Whatsapp on +44 330 123 9480.
Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Eleanor Sly
Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Phil Bull
Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas
Senior news editor: China Collins
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
