New Delhi: Two recent international studies have raised concern over a sharp rise in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers among adults younger than 50 years. These cancers, which affect organs like the colon, rectum, stomach, pancreas, and esophagus, are now being diagnosed more frequently in younger age groups.
The first study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), highlights that while colorectal cancer is still the most common form of GI cancer in younger adults, other types—including gastric, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers—are also on the rise.
“Colorectal cancer makes up more than half of early-onset GI cancer cases worldwide, but other cancers like pancreatic and gastric are also increasing in young people,” said Dr. Kimmie Ng, an oncologist from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in the U.S.
She emphasized that this growing trend calls for better prevention and early detection strategies.
The second study, published in the British Journal of Surgery, found that the number of new early-onset GI cancer cases rose by 14.8% between 2010 and 2019. While people aged 40 to 49 make up the largest share of these cases, the fastest-growing rates are being seen in even younger age groups.
According to the research, individuals born in 1990 are:
Twice as likely to develop colon cancer
Four times as likely to develop rectal cancer
compared to those born in 1950.
What's Causing the Surge?
Experts point to modifiable lifestyle factors as major contributors, including:
Obesity
Poor dietary habits
Physical inactivity
Smoking
Alcohol consumption
The researchers also stress the importance of genetic testing for all patients diagnosed with early-onset GI cancers. This can help identify hereditary risk factors and guide personalized treatment.
“Screening is absolutely critical,” said Dr. Thejus Jayakrishnan, also from Dana-Farber. “Every missed screening is a missed chance to catch cancer early or prevent it altogether by removing precancerous polyps.”
In light of the findings, medical professionals are urging for greater awareness, earlier screening guidelines, and public health initiatives focused on healthier lifestyles to help curb this alarming rise in GI cancers among young adults.