Rising incidence of colon cancer in young people: Effects of diet and lifestyle

The rising number of colon cancer cases in young people has health experts worried. Recent studies suggest that factors such as diet and a sedentary lifestyle are largely responsible for this alarming trend.

A groundbreaking study by Cleveland Clinic highlights the importance of certain diet-derived metabolites, particularly those related to red and processed meat consumption, as key drivers of colorectal cancer risk.

Study reveals the effect of diet on colon cancer

The research results were published in the scientific journal. npj microscopic tumorsmetabolite and microbiome data analysis. The main conclusion is that discussing diet with a physician may be one of the best forms of prevention for adults under 60 years of age.

According to Sunil Kamath, a gastrointestinal oncologist and senior author of the study, it is not feasible to apply the same models of care used for people over 60 to younger adults. “Offering annual colonoscopy to everyone is impractical,” Kamath explained. “Instead, we should offer biomarkers for colorectal cancer risk.”

What are the main contributors to colon cancer risk?

Metabolites derived from a diet high in red and processed meat were identified as significant risk factors. The analysis was based on data from patients treated for early- or intermediate-stage colorectal cancer at the Cleveland Clinic.

Previous studies by the same research group have already identified differences in colorectal cancer metabolites and the gut microbiome between young and older adults. These differences provide important directions for future investigations.

What algorithm can determine the most relevant factors?

To better understand these risk factors, the researchers developed an artificial intelligence algorithm. The algorithm collects and analyzes a variety of data sets, revealing that diet is a key factor. “Our data clearly shows that diet is the key factor associated with early colorectal cancer risk,” said Naseer Sangwan, director of the Center for Microbial Sequencing and Analytics.

Diet to prevent colon cancer

Young patients with colon cancer had elevated levels of metabolites linked to the amino acid arginine and the urea cycle. This scenario is associated with long-term consumption of red and processed meats. The research team is now validating these findings in patient data from across the country and testing diets or medications that might regulate arginine production and the urea cycle.

What are the steps to prevent colon cancer?

Experts recommend:

• Discuss your diet with your doctor.
• Reduce consumption of red and processed meats.
• Increase your intake of fiber and vegetables.
• Conduct regular preventive checkups.

These measures can help reduce risk and improve quality of life.

Impact of Discoveries on Patient Care

The researchers say their findings are changing the way they care for their patients. “Now, I always talk about the importance of diet during consultations,” Kamath says.

In short, the study reveals that while changing your gut microbiome is complex, tweaking your diet may be a more practical and effective way to prevent colon cancer. Maintaining a balanced diet and being mindful of your body’s signals can make a big difference in preventing this disease.