Colon cancer is on the rise in young adults – Now, scientists are investigating how diets high in fat and low in fiber can trigger changes in the digestive system that increase the risk of early-onset colon cancer.
Ohio State University researchers say a “Western diet” can disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in your gastrointestinal tract, leading to inflammation, which makes cells mature faster and become more vulnerable to cancer.
They presented their findings at the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s annual meeting in Chicago over the weekend.
OSU scientists have found that people with early-stage colon cancer are biologically 15 years older than their chronological age. Late-onset colon cancer patients had similar biologic and chronological age.
Biological age is how old your cells, tissues and organs are. Genetics, environmental exposures, and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep habits influence biological age. Chronological age refers to how many years a person has lived.
OSU researchers blame Fusobacterium, a bacteria commonly found in the mouth, that is suspected of triggering colon cancer growth.
Other cancer scientists have also investigated the bacteria’s relationship to colon cancer.
“Microbes are manipulable—you can target them. So [as] “We see that these microbes get to tumors and actively contribute to disease progression, and we can use that information to think about how to prevent it,” said Susan Pullman, who has studied the link between microbes and cancer. recently explained.
As researchers try to learn more about what causes early-onset colon cancer, young people around the world are being diagnosed at alarming rates.
In 2019, 20% of new colon cancer cases were in people younger than 55, up from 11% in 1995. According to the American Cancer Society.
The study proposed Dietary fiber is high in reducing the risk of many types of cancer, including esophageal, gastric, colon, and rectal cancer.
Fiber is said to “feed” healthy gut bacteria, Experts recommend Fruits like oranges and apples, whole grains, nuts and seeds can lower your cancer risk.
Most Americans don’t eat enough fiber. Women are encouraged to get 25 grams of fiber per day, while men should consume 38 grams of fiber.
