Recent studies have shown an increase in the incidence of early-onset cancer diagnosed in adults under 50, with researchers suggesting accelerated biological aging as a potential cause for the rise. The American Cancer Society’s Cancer Statistics 2024 report revealed an increase in the diagnoses of cervical and colorectal cancer in younger males and females. Another study reported a global increase in early-onset cancer incidence and deaths between 1990 and 2019. While lifestyle and environmental factors are believed to play a role in the increase of early-onset cancer, further research is needed to fully understand the causes.
A new study presented at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research suggests that accelerated biological aging could be driving the development of early-onset cancers. Researchers analyzed data from over 148,000 participants in the UK Biobank, calculating each individual’s biological age based on nine biomarkers in the blood. Those born after 1965 were found to have a 17% increased likelihood of accelerated aging compared to those born between 1950 and 1954. Accelerated aging was associated with a higher risk of developing various types of early-onset cancers, as well as late-onset gastrointestinal and uterine cancers.
Experts in the field, such as Anton Bilchik, MD, and Jack Jacoub, MD, have found the study to be fascinating and view accelerated biological aging as a potential explanation for the increase in early-onset cancers. The simplicity of the nine parameters evaluated in the study has impressed medical professionals, highlighting the importance of understanding cellular aging in relation to disease development. Lifestyle factors, including obesity, sedentary behavior, smoking, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, and stress, have been linked to almost half of all cancers, according to the American Cancer Society.
Andre Goy, MD, chair of oncology at Hackensack Meridian Health, believes that the increase in early-onset cancer is likely linked to lifestyle choices. He suggests that improving dietary habits, engaging in regular physical activity, and addressing stress-related factors could help slow down biological aging and reduce the risk of cancer. Goy emphasizes the importance of preemptive medicine driven by molecular wellness and changing behavior patterns to promote overall health. He also highlights the impact of the microbiome on chronic inflammation and cancer promotion, suggesting that correcting dysbiosis will be essential in future medical interventions.
In conclusion, the rise in early-onset cancer diagnoses among adults under 50 has led researchers to explore the role of accelerated biological aging in driving cancer development. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and stress, are believed to play a significant role in influencing biological age and cancer risk. Further studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind accelerated aging and its impact on disease development. Experts emphasize the importance of preventive measures, such as improved dietary habits and physical activity, to promote overall health and reduce the risk of early-onset cancers. Advances in molecular wellness and understanding the role of the microbiome are seen as key components in future medical interventions to address the growing burden of early-onset cancer.
