Early-Onset Cancer Is Surging — Here’s How To Lower Our Risk

Forbes - May 10th, 2025

Early-onset cancer is becoming increasingly common among individuals under 50, with significant surges in breast, colorectal, kidney, and uterine cancers. A U.S. government study analyzing over two million cancer cases from 2010 to 2019 and a 2023 BMJ Oncology study highlight an alarming 80% rise in global early-onset cancer cases since 1990. While better detection contributes to some of the increase, major lifestyle and environmental changes are central to this trend. Factors like ultra-processed food consumption, obesity, sedentary behavior, and exposure to synthetic chemicals are identified as key contributors.

Addressing this surge requires a multi-faceted strategy. Governments could impose warning labels on processed foods, restrict junk food marketing to youths, and subsidize healthier food options, especially in schools. Emphasizing early-life prevention, environmental regulation, and improved screening and detection methods is crucial. Public health campaigns should also focus on reducing alcohol consumption and promoting physical activity. The trend of rising early-onset cancer is not inevitable but a result of lifestyle choices, necessitating political, corporate, and cultural shifts to prioritize long-term health.

Public Health Obesity Cancer Prevention Processed Foods Environmental Factors National Cancer Institute Early Onset Cancer Bmj Oncology

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RATING

7.4

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The news story on early-onset cancer provides a comprehensive and largely accurate overview of a significant public health issue. It effectively highlights the increasing incidence of cancer among younger populations and discusses various contributing factors, such as lifestyle choices and environmental exposures. The article is well-structured and timely, addressing a topic of broad public interest with the potential to influence policy and individual behaviors. However, the story could benefit from greater transparency in source attribution and methodology, as well as a more balanced exploration of alternative perspectives and mitigating factors. Overall, the article succeeds in raising awareness and encouraging engagement with a critical health concern, but further enhancements in source transparency and balance could strengthen its impact and credibility.

Accuracy

The news story provides a largely accurate depiction of the rising trend in early-onset cancer, supported by credible studies and data from authoritative sources like the National Cancer Institute and BMJ Oncology. The claim of a nearly 80% increase in global early-onset cancer cases between 1990 and 2019 is consistent with available research, adding to the story's credibility. However, some claims, such as the specific impact of ultra-processed foods and sedentary behavior on cancer risk, would benefit from more detailed evidence or direct citations to bolster their verifiability. Overall, the story's factual basis is strong, but certain areas could be enhanced with additional data or references.

Balance

The article presents a well-rounded view of the factors contributing to early-onset cancer, including lifestyle, environmental, and genetic elements. However, it primarily focuses on the negative impacts of modern lifestyle choices without equally exploring potential mitigating factors or alternative perspectives. For instance, while the role of diet and sedentary behavior is highlighted, the article could benefit from discussing advancements in early detection or treatment that might counterbalance these risks. The emphasis on processed foods and chemicals might overshadow other relevant factors, such as genetic predispositions or healthcare access, which are only briefly mentioned.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, accessible language to convey complex scientific concepts related to cancer risk and prevention. The logical flow of information helps readers understand the multifaceted nature of early-onset cancer, from genetic factors to lifestyle and environmental influences. However, the article occasionally uses technical terms, such as 'exposome' and 'endocrine-disrupting chemicals,' which might benefit from further explanation for a general audience. Overall, the clarity of the article is commendable, but minor adjustments could enhance comprehension.

Source quality

The article draws from reputable sources like the National Cancer Institute and BMJ Oncology, which are well-regarded in the medical and scientific community. These sources provide credibility to the claims made about cancer trends and risk factors. However, the article could improve by explicitly citing these studies and data points within the text to enhance transparency and allow readers to assess the reliability of the information. The lack of direct quotes or detailed references to the studies mentioned limits the reader's ability to verify the information independently.

Transparency

While the article provides a comprehensive overview of the factors contributing to early-onset cancer, it lacks transparency in terms of methodology and source attribution. The absence of direct citations or links to the studies referenced makes it difficult for readers to verify the information or understand the basis of the claims. Additionally, the article does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or biases that may affect the reporting, which is crucial for maintaining reader trust and ensuring impartiality.