A particular type of cancer is increasingly affecting younger people in the UK, and experts are shedding light on the reasons behind this concerning trend.

It’s crucial to seek medical advice if you suspect your health is declining. But what happens when the issue involves a cancer that’s hard to detect?

With new research from The Lancet revealing recent data on this growing health challenge, it’s time to reevaluate our habits to reduce the risks.

The study highlights a worrying rise in early-onset colorectal cancer among younger populations, with under-50s particularly affected.

Colorectal cancer on the rise: What does the study say?

According to the findings, colorectal cancer rates are increasing in 27 out of the 50 countries studied. In 20 of these nations, the rise is either specific to younger adults or happening faster in younger people compared to older adults.

The steepest increases in early-onset cases were observed in Chile (4%), New Zealand (just under 4%), Puerto Rico (3.8%), and England (3.6%).

Other countries, including Canada and Germany, have also seen a similar rise in cases.

The study stresses the need for urgent action: “Intensified efforts are required to identify the factors driving these trends and to increase awareness to facilitate early detection.”

What’s driving the increase in colorectal cancer?

Researchers from the American Cancer Society, who led the study, point to the Western diet as a major factor.

The spread of ultra-processed foods, often promoted by expanding junk food companies, is contributing to this rise, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas. These diets have been linked to numerous serious health risks.

The study underscores the significance of colorectal cancer, describing it as the “third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide, responsible for over 1.9 million new cases and nearly 904,000 deaths in 2022.”