Doctors in the UAE have reported an increase in cancer cases among younger residents. Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, president of the Emirates Oncology Society, notes a rise in cancer diagnoses among both Gen X and millennial populations. This trend aligns with findings from a recent Lancet Public Health study, which indicates that these younger generations are more prone to developing 17 types of cancers compared to older generations. The study links these cancers to obesity and physical inactivity.
In the UAE, 25.4 percent of cancer diagnoses occur in individuals under 40, a pattern observed across both genders and among both Emirati and non-Emirati residents. Prof. Al Shamsi, also the CEO of Burjeel Cancer Institute in Abu Dhabi, highlighted that colorectal cancer is the second most prevalent cancer in the UAE, and breast cancer shows a higher incidence in younger women.
The Lancet Public Health study reveals that cancer rates for 17 of the 34 most common cancers are increasing globally among younger generations. Kidney, pancreatic, and small intestine cancers are notably more common among millennials. Despite the rising incidence, mortality rates for most cancers have either stabilized or declined among younger populations.
Doctors attribute these trends to shifts in diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Dr. Tarek Al Khouri, a specialist in medical oncology, explains that obesity, which became prevalent from the late 1970s, is a significant risk factor for cancers like those of the colon, kidney, and liver. Obesity and physical inactivity are strongly associated with an increased risk of several cancers, as excess fat can elevate hormone levels that promote cancer growth.
Modern lifestyles, marked by sedentary behaviors and increased screen time, contribute to obesity and its associated cancer risks. Other factors include high consumption of processed foods, exposure to environmental toxins, and delayed diagnoses. Genetic and epigenetic factors also influence cancer susceptibility in younger generations.
To address these rising cancer rates, doctors advocate for preventive measures such as promoting healthy eating habits and increasing physical activity. Dr. Al Khouri emphasizes the importance of public education on obesity risks and access to regular screenings for early detection and prevention. The increasing prevalence of cancer among younger generations, linked to obesity and inactivity, necessitates immediate attention and proactive lifestyle changes to safeguard future health.
