40% Americans, mostly youth, at risk of cancer

Cancer is the second leading cause of deaths in the United States, USA Today reported.

Even though the overall cancer mortality rate has decreased tremendously, thanks to medical advancements, the discovery of cancer in young people has increased significantly.

A study has found that 40% Americans have a chance of developing cancer at some point in their lives.

According to the National Cancer Institute, colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is increasing rapidly in young people. A study published in the BMJ Oncology found that cases of cancers among young people have increased by nearly 80% between 1990 and 2019.

The American Cancer Society researchers have found that six types of cancer related to obesity, such as colorectal, uterine, gallbladder, kidney and pancreatic have jumped significantly in young adults, Washington Post reported.

While cases of gastrointestinal, endocrine and breast cancers in females are increasing rapidly.

Experts believe lifestyle choice such as excessive drinking, inactivity, obesity, fatty diets and low intake of fruits and vegetables have increased chances of developing cancer.

Doctors suggest to start screening for cancers early on. For breast cancer, females should start screening at 40, for colon cancer at age 45, for lung cancer at 50, and for cervical cancer at the age of 21.