Medically Reviewed by Virginia L. Clyburn-Ipock, MD

For the average American today, there is a 35 to 45 percent chance of developing cancer. While that number is quite sobering and worrisome, what is even more concerning are recent cancer trends, according to McLeod Radiation Oncologist Dr. Virginia Clyburn-Ipock.

In 2023, a retrospective review revealed an alarming finding of an 80 percent increase in cancer incidence in adults ages 30 to 50 since the 1990s.

Colorectal Cancer: A Growing Concern for Young People

And while multiple cancers are increasing, one that is a significant concern in young adults is colorectal cancer – prompting the United States Preventive Services Task Force to drop the recommended screening colonoscopy age from 50 to 45.

“While this was a huge win for us on the front lines against this formidable foe, in my opinion, decreasing screening to include those in their 30s should also be evaluated,” said Dr. Clyburn-Ipock.

Early detection saves lives. That’s why it’s critical to know your body and pay attention to changes. Talk to your primary care provider if you notice:

• Changes in your bowel habits
• Stool that is thinner in caliber
• Blood in your stool
• Black, tarry stools

And please ensure you and your loved ones are getting colonoscopies starting at age 45 and at minimum every 10 years thereafter; screening will be more frequent than 10 years if worrisome polyps are found.

Why is Colorectal Cancer on the Rise?

No one knows for absolute certain but, according to Dr. Clyburn-Ipock, there is emerging data suggesting potential culprits.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified processed meats as carcinogens (cancer causing). WHO also came out and put guidelines on recommending limited red meat consumption.

In addition to red meat consumption, another equally concerning potential health hazard is processed foods and ultra-processed foods – “To simplify — anything you eat that doesn’t come from mother nature,” said Dr. Clyburn-Ipock.

There was also a study out of the United Kingdom that concluded regular consumption of ultra-processed foods may increase the risk of a spectrum of cancers — pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and brain cancer.

Also, data published very recently reveals eating a “plant-heavy diet” is also associated with decreased rates of cancer.

Protecting Yourself and Your Family

“We are making great advances in treating cancer, but we really need to get on the side of prevention,” said Dr. Clyburn-Ipock. “Start by looking at the label on what you are buying and review the ingredients. Less ingredients are best and ingredients you can pronounce are better. Otherwise, the food likely has additives, preservatives and chemicals that may be detrimental to your overall health.”

Other ways you can protect yourself and your family members:

• Start screening for breast cancer at age 40 with an annual screening mammogram. If you are at high risk and you have been told you have dense breast tissue, discuss with your physician the need for a Breast MRI or breast ultrasound.
• Undergo an annual Low-Dose Lung CT screening for lung cancer if you:
  • Have a 20 pack-year or more smoking history*
  • Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years
  • Are between 50 and 80 years old
    * A pack-year is smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes per day for one year. For example, a person could have a 20 pack-year history by smoking one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years.
• Cervical Cancer screening – if you are 21 and older undergo a Pap Smear every one to three years.
• Get the Gardasil vaccine to help prevent cervical cancer, anal cancer and cancer of the oral cavity and throat. This vaccine is now recommended up to age 45 in men and women. HPV is the driver for most cervical cancers, and we are seeing a drastic rise in head and neck cancers that are HPV-induced.
• Prostate Cancer screening – the United States Preventive Services Task Force’s current recommendation, which applies to both the general population and those at an increased risk due to race/ethnicity or family history, is for individuals aged 55 to 69 to discuss the potential benefits and risks of having an annual PSA test with their provider.

In addition to these cancer screenings, help protect yourself by avoiding tobacco products, minimizing alcohol consumption and decreasing your consumption of processed foods and red meat.