Cancer Incidence Among Young People: What’s Behind The Increase?

Globally, more than a million under-50s a year are dying of cancer. Cancer diagnoses in 15 and 39 years (Adolescents and Young Adults) population account for roughly 5% of all cancer diagnoses each year. There has been an almost 80 percent increase in cancer diagnoses among individuals aged below 50 years in the last three decades.

ICMR data revealed that cancers of the mouth, tongue, and leukaemia are on the rise among males, while breast and thyroid cancers are increasing among females. Early onset cancer had a much greater impact on women than on men, in terms of poor health and deaths.

Being the most productive group for a community or a country, it needs utmost attention to improve upon the prevention, screening, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of cancer in this population.

What’s behind the increase?

1. Lifestyle ChoicesFactors such as the Western diet, diets high in red meat, salt and sugar, diets low in fresh fruits and dairy, unhealthy eating habits, increased consumption of processed foods, lack of physical activity, and sedentary lifestyle contribute to increasing obesity. Rising rates of obesity have been associated with early-onset cancers.
2. Tobacco and Alcohol UseTobacco (smoking and or chewing) and alcohol consumption, remain widely used among young people in India. Tobacco use, is a leading cause of various cancers, including lung, oral, and throat cancer.Environmental Factors: Rapid industrialization and urbanization in India have led to increased exposure to environmental pollutants, chemicals, including air and water pollution, increasing the risk of cancer.
3. Infectious AgentsViral infections associated with cancer are increasing. Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Linked to cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. Hepatitis B and C: Associated with liver cancer. Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): Linked to lymphomas and nasopharyngeal cancer.
4. Delayed ChildbearingYoung women delaying childbirth, affecting hormonal balance, can increase their risk of certain cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancer.

Improved cancer screening programs have led to earlier detection, which may contribute to increased incidence rates. Greater awareness and ease of access to healthcare services also play a role.

For control a multi-faceted approach is required.

Promoting healthy Lifestyles: including regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Implementing and enforcing regulations to control environmental pollutants. Public health campaigns to raise awareness and engaging young people as advocates for cancer prevention and control efforts.