In recent times, there has been a notable increase in the incidence of cancer diagnoses among young individuals, and Kate Middleton’s recent revelation about her personal battle with the disease has brought attention to this worrisome trend. The Duchess of Cambridge has shared that she is currently undergoing treatment for cancer following abdominal surgery.
Dr. Shivan Sivakumar, an esteemed associate professor in oncology at the University of Birmingham, has expressed deep concern regarding the rising prevalence of cancer among individuals under the age of 50, describing it as an “epidemic.” Of particular concern is the uptick in abdominal cancers. Furthermore, rates of colorectal cancer have seen an increase among adults below 55 years of age in the United States. A study published in BMJ Oncology has presented significant evidence of a global increase in early-onset cancer, accompanied by a rise in early-onset cancer-related mortality.
Numerous contributing factors have been identified by researchers as potential causes for this troubling trend, including poor dietary habits, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, physical inactivity, and elevated body fat. Breast, tracheal, bronchus, lung, colorectal, and stomach cancers have been identified as the leading causes of illness and mortality among younger adults in 2019, leading to the labelling of early-onset cancer as an “emerging global epidemic.”
Consultant colorectal surgeon Andrew Beggs, from the University of Birmingham, has provided his insights into this matter, highlighting the rarity of encountering younger cancer patients at the outset of his career. However, he now regularly treats younger adults with cancer, many of whom are caught off guard by their diagnosis due to their lack of symptoms and their age.
Researchers have delved into potential explanations for the surge in specific cancers, including genetic factors and alterations to the gut microbiome. Dr. Veda Giri, a respected medical oncologist at Yale Medicine, has stressed the necessity for further research across a range of domains, including population science, behavioural health, public health, and basic science. She has emphasized the importance of recognizing early-onset cancer as a unique form of the disease and providing additional support to younger patients.
It is anticipated that the public disclosure of Kate Middleton’s cancer journey may encourage more young individuals to undergo testing, potentially leading to a higher number of documented cancer cases. For example, a man from Texas, who was diagnosed with Stage 2 colon cancer, mentioned being inspired by the late Chadwick Boseman, who publicly battled colon cancer before his passing.
Actress Olivia Munn also recently shared her breast cancer diagnosis and double mastectomy, highlighting the role of her doctor in conducting a risk assessment for the disease.
The increasing prevalence of cancer among young adults is a growing concern, and concerted efforts to raise awareness, conduct research, and support affected individuals are crucial in addressing this pressing issue.