SERIOUS: doctors around the world warn about a type of cancer that grows in a ‘scary’ way in people up to 50 years old

Doctors around the world are alarmed by the rise in cases of colorectal cancer in people under 50. This scenario has been described as “scary”, “worrying”, “global problem” and “global alert” by health professionals interviewed by BBC News Brasil.

Colorectal cancer affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum, and is one of the most impactful diseases on health and quality of life. In recent decades, experts have observed a worrying trend: although cases among older people have remained relatively stable, representing the majority of patients, rates among younger people have increased significantly.

Clinical oncologist Paulo Hoff, president of Oncologia D’Or, reports that, compared to rates 30 years ago, some studies indicate an alarming increase of up to 70% in the incidence of colorectal cancer in young patients. This difference in statistics has already led to changes in public health, such as in the United States, where the minimum age for preventive exams that detect colorectal tumors early was reduced from 50 to 45 years.

In Brazil, preliminary data also point to an increase in the disease at younger ages. Epidemiologist Marianna Cancela, a researcher at the National Cancer Institute (Inca), confirmed an increase in cases of this tumor in all age groups, especially among men aged 20 to 49. Furthermore, recent research indicates that colorectal cancer could become one of the main causes of years of productive life lost in the country.

Faced with this escalation, Brazilian experts are analyzing available statistics to assess whether additional measures are needed to protect this younger population against colorectal cancer. Oncologist Samuel Aguiar Jr., leader of the Reference Center for Colorectal Tumors at AC Camargo Cancer Center, in São Paulo, describes the situation as worrying and frightening, highlighting not only the frequency of cases, but also the impact that colorectal cancer has in young people.

What’s behind the spike in colorectal cancer?

The alarming increase in colorectal cancer cases in people under 50 has worried doctors around the world. Although the exact causes are not confirmed, some theories point to lifestyle changes as one of the factors.

The transition from an agrarian and rural society to an urban one, diets rich in ultra-processed products and a sedentary lifestyle may be contributing to this scenario. Furthermore, overweight, obesity and indiscriminate use of antibiotics are also considered influences.

In the United States, the minimum age for preventive exams was reduced from 50 to 45 years, and in Brazil, the National Cancer Institute is debating the implementation of a specific program for colorectal cancer.

With information from Political Connection