A recent study has brought attention to a troubling trend in China—an alarming rise in obesity-related cancers, especially among younger people. The research analyzed over 650,000 cancer cases from 2007 to 2021 and found that individuals born between 1997 and 2001 are at a 25 times higher risk of developing these cancers compared to those born between 1962 and 1966.
Surge in Obesity-Related Cancers
The study uncovered that from 2007 to 2021, obesity-related cancer rates in China have been increasing at a concerning rate of 3.6% each year. Meanwhile, cancers not linked to obesity have shown no change. The most alarming statistic comes from the age group of 25 to 29, where the annual increase in obesity-related cancer rates reached 15.3%.
Growing Cancer Burden Among Young Adults
Yang Jinkui, an endocrinologist at Capital Medical University in Beijing, led the research, which was published last week in the peer-reviewed Med Journal of Cell Press. The study highlighted that the increasing number of cancer cases among young adults “reflects recent changes in exposure to environmental and dietary factors.” While cancer is usually associated with older adults, this trend in younger people is adding to the overall cancer burden in China.
Obesity’s Role in Cancer
The research pointed out that obesity is linked to at least 12 types of cancer, including colorectal, liver, gallbladder, pancreatic, breast, uterine, ovarian, kidney, thyroid, multiple myeloma, gastric cardia, and esophageal adenocarcinoma. The study’s authors warned that if stronger public health measures are not implemented, the number of obesity-related cancers in China could double within the next ten years. They urged the government to promote healthier eating habits, reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods, and encourage physical activity.
Significant Increase in Colorectal Cancer
One of the most striking findings was the rise in colorectal cancer among those aged 25 to 29. The rate jumped from 17.37 cases per 100,000 people to 23.89 per 100,000 people over the study period. This increase is especially significant compared to other digestive system cancers and is closely linked to China’s economic growth and improved living standards.
The researchers attributed this rise to lifestyle factors such as a lack of physical activity, tobacco use, high consumption of red meat and alcohol, and inadequate screening, leading to missed chances for early treatment.