A recent study finds a significant rise in severe diverticulitis cases among Americans under 50 over the past two decades, with unclear causes but potential links to lifestyle and dietary factors, highlighting the need for further research.
Colon cancer is increasingly diagnosed in younger Americans, with a 2% annual rise in cases among those in their 30s and 40s. While the exact cause is unknown, certain lifestyle choices contribute to the risk, including alcohol use, obesity, and a diet high in red meat and processed foods. Implementing a healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking and heavy alcohol use early in life can help lower the risk. Screening for colon cancer is now recommended to begin at age 45 for those at average risk, and earlier for those at increased risk due to factors like family history or inflammatory bowel disease.
While overall cancer death rates in the US have declined due to factors like decreased smoking and early screening, there is a concerning rise in certain cancers among Americans under 55, particularly colorectal and cervical cancer. This trend is also accompanied by widening racial disparities in cancer mortality. Researchers are exploring potential risk factors such as diet, obesity, and antibiotic use, and are calling for increased screening and awareness, especially for colorectal cancer in younger age groups.
A recent survey by Nationwide reveals that a growing number of older adults have no retirement plan beyond Social Security, with 21% of adults aged 50 or older relying solely on Social Security income, up from 13% in 2014. The survey also found that more respondents doubt they will receive their full Social Security benefits, with 75% believing that Social Security will run out of funding in their lifetime. Additionally, only 8% of respondents understood how to maximize their Social Security benefits. Misconceptions about Social Security were prevalent, including misconceptions about the full retirement age and the impact of filing early. Younger Americans were less optimistic about Social Security, with many believing they won't receive any benefits and planning to continue working in retirement.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that cancer rates among younger Americans, particularly women, are increasing, with gastrointestinal, endocrine, and breast cancers showing the fastest growth. While cancers among older adults have declined, cancers among those under 50 have slightly increased overall, with the largest increases seen in the 30 to 39 age group. Possible reasons behind this trend include rising obesity rates, lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and sedentary behavior, and exposure to pollutants and carcinogenic chemicals. The study emphasizes the need for more research to understand the causes and address the rising cancer risk among younger individuals.
A new study shows a concerning spike in colon cancer cases among Americans younger than 50, leading some experts to question what might be causing the marked change. While cancer genetics haven't changed much in recent times, some doctors believe a societal increase in processed food diets and sedentary lifestyles may be at least partially to blame. Medical experts are recommending the screening age be dropped to 45, as one study showed a 90% increase in colon cancer among people aged 20 to 34, while those 35-49 saw an increase of 28%.