Doctors are looking into the impact of something which could pose a risk even in foods labeled as 'healthy'.
Figures from the American Cancer Society show the rate of young people being diagnosed with colon cancer have nearly doubled over the last 30 years.
Dr Daniel Sussman told WSVN: “It’s a trend that has been observed for several years and only recently has really garnered a lot of attention.”
A particular risk factor in younger patients is that the signs aren't spotted until the disease reaches a more advanced-stage.
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"So when people get diagnosed with advanced-stage cancers, they are more likely to die from those cancers than if it was caught at an early stage," Dr Sussman added.
While there are any number of things which could potentially be a factor in this, doctors are looking into one thing which could be a risk, especially in colon cancer.
It's already widely understood that eating foods that contain a lot of additives could lead to a greater risk of developing cancer.
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But there are some additives which are included in foods that are marketed as 'healthy'.
Dr Maria Abreu has been awarded a grant to research the increase in colon cancer, which she believes could be down to the increased consumption of 'ultra-processed' foods.
These are things which have very high amounts of additives used in production, with 'ultra-processed' distinguishing them from foods which are processed but not to the same degree.
She said: “Things like emulsifiers that are added in, things that are creamy, you know, the nonfat yogurts and all these things, really can change the gut microbiome very profoundly.”
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Dr Abreu went on to explain how this might be a risk factor in cancer.
She said: “Something in the microbiome has changed, and it’s setting in motion this chronic inflammation in the [gastrointestinal] tract.”
It's this, Dr Abreu explains, which could cause someone to be at an increased risk of the disease.
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The doctor is currently developing a means of testing if someone is experiencing this inflammation.
In the meantime, she advised people to avoid eating ultra-processed foods where possible, saying: “I tell my own patients that anything that comes in a bag with an expiration date next year is not food.”
As always, a balanced diet with lots of fresh fruit and veg, protein, and fats is good, as is sometimes having things which make you feel good even if they're not the healthiest option.
Because enjoyment and having a good relationship with food is also important in life.
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If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.
Topics: Cancer, Food and Drink, Health
Kit Roberts