Cancer rates in young people begin to flatten after years of increase

11 articles · Updated · New Scientist · Apr 28

Recent analysis of data up to 2023 in England shows a slowdown in rising cancer rates among people aged 20 to 49.
The study found that while obesity explains only a small part of the increase, other risk factors like smoking and alcohol have remained stable or improved. Bowel and breast cancers remain the most common among young adults.
Researchers suggest multiple factors, including ultraprocessed foods and environmental chemicals, may contribute. Despite relative increases, absolute case numbers remain low, and new weight-loss drugs could further impact future obesity-related cancer trends.

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