Colon cancer raises rapidly among younger adults alarms doctor's worldwide

[PadmajaRajana]

Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: Rising Trends

Recent data indicate CRC is climbing in adults under 50. Cases in this age group now account for ~10% of diagnoses (versus ~5–7% two decades ago). A global Lancet Oncology analysis found incidence rising in 27 of 50 countries, highlighting an emerging young-onset CRC burden.

1. Lifestyle/diet: Western diets (ultra-processed foods, high red/processed meat and sugary drink intake, low fiber) with sedentary behavior and obesity appear to drive this trend.

2. Genetics and screening: Inherited syndromes (Lynch, FAP) sharply increase CRC risk. Routine screening usually starts at age 45, so younger adults are often unscreened until symptoms arise.

3. Warning signs: Persistent bowel habit changes, ongoing abdominal discomfort/cramping, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss are common early symptoms. These “red flags” often prompt evaluation when noticed.

      These findings underscore the need for clinical vigilance. Coordinated efforts to educate providers and the public are critical. Emphasizing early detection (through symptom awareness and appropriate screening – now often starting at age 45) and advocating healthier lifestyles (more fiber, less processed food, regular exercise) can help mitigate this trend.
   

@Shuvadeep

Interaction between drugs and foodis an issue that is usually neglected, but the effect of its interaction may be disastrous in terms of a medication. The foods consumed in the regular daily routines as well as drinks and supplements may have effects on the absorption, metabolism or excretion of drugs in the body.

Typical examples are grapefruit which influences drug metabolism enzymes, foods containing high levels of calcium that reduce the absorption of antibiotics and the high levels of vitamin K in a diet which inhibit anticoagulants. Even herbal product and caffeine can increase or minimize therapeutic response or worsen the side effects.

Due to the fact that they do not always give immediate symptoms, the patient may often remain unaware of these interactions which fail to result in immediate treatment and have secondary effects in the long run. There is also the risk of the lack of patient awareness and inappropriate counseling.

In order to enhance medication safety, patients need to be educated, labeled clearly, and counselled regularly about the precautions of their diet. What we consume may well be as much as what we borrow.
Do you enquire about food limitations when beginning new medicine; or do you think it does not matter?

MBH/AB

Summary

@Shuvadeep

Interaction between drugs and foodis an issue that is usually neglected, but the effect of its interaction may be disastrous in terms of a medication. The foods consumed in the regular daily routines as well as drinks and supplements may have effects on the absorption, metabolism or excretion of drugs in the body.

Typical examples are grapefruit which influences drug metabolism enzymes, foods containing high levels of calcium that reduce the absorption of antibiotics and the high levels of vitamin K in a diet which inhibit anticoagulants. Even herbal product and caffeine can increase or minimize therapeutic response or worsen the side effects.

Due to the fact that they do not always give immediate symptoms, the patient may often remain unaware of these interactions which fail to result in immediate treatment and have secondary effects in the long run. There is also the risk of the lack of patient awareness and inappropriate counseling.

In order to enhance medication safety, patients need to be educated, labeled clearly, and counselled regularly about the precautions of their diet. What we consume may well be as much as what we borrow.
Do you enquire about food limitations when beginning new medicine; or do you think it does not matter?

MBH/AB