PATTAYA, Thailand – Cancer cases among younger adults are showing worrying increases in several parts of the world, according to research highlighted by Thai medical expert Prof. Dr. Thiravat Hemachudha, who warned that the disease is becoming a growing global health concern.
Dr. Thiravat, chairman of the Centre of Excellence in Integrative Medical and Public Health, shared information from international research showing that cancer rates among people under the age of 50 have increased in several categories in recent years. The data from the United States National Cancer Institute indicates that several cancer types among younger populations recorded notable increases between 2021 and 2023, including colorectal cancer, small intestine cancer, ovarian cancer, stomach cancer and breast cancer.
According to the figures cited:
- Colorectal cancer among younger adults increased by 19.4%
- Small intestine cancer increased by 15.5%
- Ovarian cancer increased by 12.8%
- Stomach cancer increased by 7.3%
- Breast cancer among women increased by 3.6%
- Non-cancerous brain tumours increased by 19.5%
Dr. Thiravat said growing numbers of people worldwide have reported experiencing cancer despite not fitting traditional risk profiles, being diagnosed with less common forms of cancer, or seeing previously controlled cancers become more aggressive. However, medical researchers have stressed that cancer trends are complex and can be influenced by multiple factors, including ageing populations, improved detection methods, lifestyle changes, environmental factors and genetic risks. Further research is required to understand the causes behind changing cancer patterns.
The National Cancer Institute in the United States continues to monitor cancer trends through its Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program, which collects data on cancer incidence and survival rates. Health professionals say early screening, maintaining healthy lifestyles and seeking medical advice when symptoms appear remain important tools in reducing the impact of cancer. (TNA)
