A report from the World Cancer Research Fund indicates that younger generations face a higher incidence of certain cancers compared to their parents at the same age.
Key facts
- •The World Cancer Research Fund analyzed data from 12 cancer types across England, the US, and the Netherlands.
- •Global obesity rates have more than doubled for adults and quadrupled for adolescents since 1990.
- •Data from 2024 shows that approximately 66% of adults in England are overweight or living with obesity.
- •Scientists are investigating whether childhood or adolescent exposure to environmental toxins contributes to early-onset cancer.
- •Lung cancer is an exception to the rising trend, with rates declining due to public awareness and anti-smoking efforts.
A new report by the World Cancer Research Fund reveals that cancer rates are increasing among people under 50 in England, the US, and the Netherlands. Researchers analyzed data from 12 cancer types over the past 20 years, finding that younger generations are experiencing higher incidence rates than previous generations at the same age. While improved diagnostic tools account for some of the increase, they do not explain the full trend.
By the numbers
Cancer Trends by Gender
In England, women under 50 have seen increases in breast, bowel, uterine, kidney, liver, pancreatic, and stomach cancers. Men under 50 in the same country have experienced rising rates of bowel, kidney, liver, pancreatic, and prostate cancers.
Potential Risk Factors
Scientists are investigating generational changes in lifestyle and environment, including the rise of ultra-processed foods, sugary drinks, and sedentary behavior. These factors are linked to obesity, which can cause chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. Researchers are also examining the impact of long-term exposure to environmental toxins, such as air and water pollution, chemicals, and plastics.
Understanding Cancer Causes
While lifestyle factors like diet and smoking are significant, scientists estimate that only 40% of cancers at a population level are linked to individually modifiable behaviors. The remaining 60% are attributed to a combination of aging, genetics, infections, environmental factors, and chance. Notably, lung cancer rates in young people have decreased, which researchers attribute to anti-smoking campaigns.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by The Guardian Health.
