Global Trend of Increasing Cancer Cases

Global trend of increasing cancer cases in the under 50 years old

The British Medical Journal of Oncology recently published a study, led by University of Edinburgh and Zhejiang University, showing that cancer cases in the under 50s increased 79% from 1990 to 2019 worldwide.

This can be partly explained by the growth in population (46% over the last 30 years), but experts agree that there has been a definite increase in cancer incidence rates. A study by Harvard University, published in Nature (2022), reported similar findings.

Top 3 types of cancers affecting under 50s

• Digestive system

• Skin                       

• Breast                   

  
  

Researchers estimate that cancer cases will rise by a further 31% by 2030, with people in their 40s the most at risk. 

Why are cases of cancer rising?

There is no definitive answer yet, but experts concluded that poor diet, poor sleep, excess weight, physical inactivity, smoking, and alcohol consumption are likely risk factors.

New areas of research such as gut microbiome, genetics, antibiotic usage are also being studied for possible links.

What can be done?

90% of cancers still occur in the over 50s.

However, it is important for those in their 20s-40s to be more aware of the possibility of cancers and are advised to seek early medical advice to optimize one’s metabolic health and modify risk factors in a holistic manner.