Cancer cases on the rise among young adults. An increase in mortality from colorectal cancer between the ages of 25 and 49 emerges from the results of one study coordinated by the University of Milan together with the University of Bologna and supported by the Airc Foundation, published today in the journal 'Annals of Oncology'. The research predicts cancer mortality rates in the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom for 2024. The growth among young people confirms a trend already detected in the United Kingdom, which could depend on risk factors such as being overweight and l obesity, the researchers highlight, specifying that “the expected mortality for this type of tumor is decreasing overall throughout Europe”.
The team, led by Carlo La Vecchia, professor of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology at the University of Milan, estimates that “the greatest increase in mortality rates from colorectal cancer among young people will be recorded in the United Kingdom, where in 2024 there will be it will be an increase of 26% compared to 2018 in men and almost 39% in women. Increases are also estimated in some EU countries, including Italy”. “Key factors contributing to the growth in colorectal cancer mortality rates among young people – explains La Vecchia – include overweight, obesity and related health conditions, such as high blood glucose levels or diabetes “.
Increased consumption of spirits in central and northern Europe and the United Kingdom and reductions in physical activity constitute additional risk factors, the researchers warn. Alcohol consumption has been associated with early-onset colorectal cancer and, in fact, in countries where a reduction in alcohol consumption has been reported (e.g. France and Italy), there has been no marked increase in rates of mortality from this tumor.
La Vecchia, 'anticipate screening age to 45'
Compared to older adults, the disease diagnosed in young adults tends to be more aggressive and have lower survival rates.
“The adoption of policies that promote the increase in physical activity, the reduction of the number of overweight or obese individuals and the limitation of alcohol consumption should be considered – suggests La Vecchia – Furthermore, in terms of prevention, one should also evaluate the extension of colorectal cancer screening by starting the campaign starting from age 45. Screening programs vary in Europe, but the growing incidence among young adults in the United States has prompted the US Preventive Service Task Force to recommend reducing the starting age of screening to 45 years”, he comments.
#Colorectal #cancers #rise #among #young #adults #due #obesity #alcohol
