Princess Catherine's cancer diagnosis puts a spotlight on the broader issue of rising cancer rates among younger people.
David Ovalle and Joel Achenbach report for The Washington Post.
In short:
- The 42-year-old's cancer was found following abdominal surgery, highlighting the increase in certain cancers in individuals under 50.
- A study notes a nearly 80% rise in global cancer incidence among younger people between 1990 and 2019, with links to obesity in the U.S.
- Experts suggest environmental factors and lifestyle choices, along with genetic predispositions, could be contributing to the uptick in cases among the young.
Key quote:
“We need to focus on the messaging that young people need to be aware they are also at risk.”
— Fola May, cancer researcher at UCLA Health
Why this matters:
Research indicates that certain types of cancers, including colorectal, breast and pancreatic, are being diagnosed more frequently in younger adults. The reasons behind this rise are not entirely understood, but experts point to a combination of factors such as changes in diet, lack of physical activity, obesity and exposure to carcinogens as potential contributors.
In EHN reporter Kristina Marusic's recent book, she talks to doctors, researchers and advocates who are upending our understanding of cancer and how to fight it by working to rid our lives of the deadly chemicals that can trigger the disease.
