Study reveals 80% rise in cancer cases among under-50s in last 30 years

The number of individuals under the age of 50 worldwide being diagnosed with cancer has surged by nearly 80 per cent over the span of three decades, as per a large study.

This global study, conducted by the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and Zhejiang University School of Medicine in Hangzhou, China, found that cases of early onset cancer increased from 1.82 million to 3.26 million in 2019.

The study, published in BMJ Oncology, spanned 204 countries and encompassed 29 types of cancer. It showed that the highest rise was seen in breast cancer, accounting for the largest number of cases and associated deaths.

However, the report suggested that cases of early onset windpipe and prostate cancers displayed the fastest rise between 1990 and 2019. Cases of early onset liver cancer demonstrated saw an estimated annual decrease of 2.88 per cent.

While genetic factors play a role in cancer cases, researchers said that diets high in red meat, salt, alcohol and tobacco and low in fruit and milk, are the main risk factors of cancer in people under 50.

The authors also suggested that inactive lifestyles, obesity, diabetes, and high blood sugar are likely to be among the culprits.

As per the study, early onset cancer had a much greater impact on women than on men, in terms of poor health and deaths, in low and middle-income countries. Encouraging a healthier way of life, encompassing a nourishing diet, abstaining from harmful substances, engaging in appropriate physical activities, and enjoying the outdoors, could potentially alleviate the burden of early onset cancer.

Based on the trends of the past three decades, the researchers find that the global number of new early onset cancer cases and associated deaths will rise by 31 per cent and 21 per cent respectively by 2030, with people in their 40s being most at risk.