The risk of cancer is being seen in people of all ages globally. It is also considered one of the major causes of death. Researchers say, that due to lifestyle and dietary disturbances, anyone can be at risk of cancer, although the risk is seen more in certain age groups.
A recent study on cancer risks has found that people of Gen X may be at a higher risk of cancer than Baby Boomers. Gen X refers to people born between 1965-1980 and Baby Boomers are people born between 1946-1964.
In a study published in JAMA Open Network, researchers said that people between the ages of 60 and 80 need to be especially careful. The risk of cancer is seen more in this age group. Researchers at the National Cancer Institute examined the health records of 3.8 million people suffering from fatal cancer in the US from 1992 to 2018. It has been found that the rate of cancer in Generation X is much higher than in other age groups.
Risk of cancer in people aged 60-70
The team of researchers used computer modeling to find out the increasing risks of cancer. Studies conducted at many levels have found that when people of Generation X turn 60-70 years old in 2025, they may be at a higher risk of getting aggressive cancer than previous generations, including baby boomers.
F. Perry Wilson, director of clinical and translational research at Yale University, said, we have a generation whose parents are seeing higher rates of cancer. Many reasons are increasing the risk of cancer, due to which all people need to take special precautions.
What do experts say?
Researchers said many initiatives have been taken to reduce the risk of cancer. Despite efforts such as campaigns to quit smoking and an increase in screening tests for colon, rectal, and breast cancer, cancer rates are seen to be high. According to the study, obesity and, a sedentary lifestyle can be the main reasons for the high cancer rate in this age group.
Thyroid cancer, kidney cancer, and leukemia cancer cases are being reported the most in men and women of Gen X. At the same time, cases of uterine, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer have been seen more in women of this age group.
The risk of cancer increases with age
Researchers said, in many study reports, there have been reports of an increase in colorectal cancer in Gen X and young people. However, a bigger concern than this is also the increasing risk to parents of a large population. Professor Wilson said, the important thing in this paper is to understand that increasing age is a major risk factor for cancer. Today's 50-year-old is exposed to more potential carcinogens than a 50-year-old in 1980.
Timely diagnosis is important
Health experts said, the risk of cancer in Generation X cannot be reduced, but if it is diagnosed on time, the risk of the disease taking a serious form can be reduced. Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is also helpful in cancer recovery. We are facing increasing risks of cancer globally.
(PC: ISTOCK)
