Surge in Cancer Cases Among Young Adults: 80% Increase in 30 Years

A new study published in BMJ Oncology journal reveals an alarming 80 percent increase in cancer diagnoses among individuals aged below 50 in the last three decades. The global incidence of early-onset cancer has risen from 1.82 million cases in 1990 to 3.26 million cases in 2019, with a 27 percent increase in mortality rate for adults in their 40s, 30s, or younger. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of exercise, and poor dietary habits are believed to contribute to this trend. Breast cancer accounted for the highest number of cases and deaths, followed by windpipe and prostate cancers. Encouraging a healthy lifestyle and preventive measures are crucial in reducing the burden of early-onset cancer.