Rising Colorectal Cancer Deaths Among Younger Europeans: 2024 Projections and Contributing Factors

Colorectal cancer-related fatalities among the younger population in Europe are anticipated to surge by approximately one-third in 2024.

Overview

A recent study conducted in the EU and UK reveals alarming projections, mirroring a concerning trend observed in the United States. Researchers point to factors like obesity, inadequate physical activity, and alcohol consumption as potential contributors to this distressing rise.

Disturbing Trends

According to cancer researchers from the University of Milan, Italy, a notable increase in colorectal cancer deaths is predicted among individuals aged 25 to 49 in the EU and UK this year compared to 2018. This echoes findings in the US, aligning with statistics from the American Cancer Society's 2024 cancer report.

US Parallels

Christina Annunziata, Senior VP of Extramural Discovery at the American Cancer Society, notes similarities in trends, emphasizing the impact of obesity, diet, and alcohol use. Colorectal cancer is identified as the primary cause of cancer-related deaths for men under 50 in the US.

Geographic Variances

The study, published in the Annals of Oncology on January 29, predicts the most significant surge in the UK, projecting a 26% increase in deaths among younger men and nearly 39% among younger women compared to six years ago. Similar albeit smaller increases are anticipated in Italy, Germany, Spain, and Poland.

Research Methodology

Researchers based their estimates on data analysis from the World Health Organization and Eurostat databases spanning from 1970 to 2018, encompassing most EU member states and the UK. These predictions, published annually for 14 years, notably mark the first forecast of an increase in colorectal cancer deaths among younger individuals in 2024.

Youthful Impact

Colorectal cancer tends to be more aggressive in younger individuals, resulting in lower survival rates compared to older demographics. Lead author Carlo La Vecchia attributes the rise to factors like obesity, high blood sugar levels, and diabetes.

Factors at Play

Increased alcohol consumption, linked to early-onset colorectal cancer, and reduced physical activity are identified as potential culprits. La Vecchia emphasizes the correlation between decreased alcohol consumption and lower death rates, citing examples like France and Italy.

Concerns and Recommendations

Countries with enhanced screening and early diagnosis capabilities show decreased death rates overall. Despite this, the augmented mortality rate among young people remains a concern. Experts recommend reinforcing policies that promote an active lifestyle, reduced alcohol consumption, and early cancer screenings. Encouraging weight loss in overweight or obese individuals is also deemed crucial.

Global Implications

Kimmie Ng, Director of the Young Onset Colorectal Cancer Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, highlights the need to address environmental factors impacting microbiomes and immune systems, making individuals more susceptible to colorectal cancers at a younger age.

In conclusion, the study calls for proactive governmental measures to promote healthier lifestyles, advocate for reduced alcohol intake, implement early screening initiatives, and facilitate weight management programs. These recommendations, applicable globally, aim to combat the concerning rise in colorectal cancer deaths among the younger population.