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countries were also affected, and the highest death rates among under-50s were in Oceania, eastern Europe and central Asia.
In low- and middle-income countries, early onset cancer had a much greater impact on women than on men, in terms of poor health and deaths.
Based on the observed trends for the past three decades, the researchers estimate that the global number of new early onset cancer cases and associated deaths will rise by a further 31% and 21% respectively by 2030, with people in their 40s the most at risk.
Genetic factors are likely to have a role, the researchers said. But diets high in red meat and salt and low in fruit and milk, along with alcohol and tobacco use, are the main risk factors underlying the most common cancers among under-50s, with physical inactivity, excess weight and high blood sugar contributory factors, the data indicates.
Dr Claire Knight, a senior health information manager at Cancer Research UK, which was not involved in the study, said it was not yet clear what was driving the trend and urged caution.
“However alarming this might seem, cancer
is primarily a disease of older age, with the majority of new cancer cases worldwide being diagnosed in those aged 50 and above,” she said. “We need more research to examine the causes of early onset cancer for specific cancer types, like our BCAN-RAY study that is looking at new ways to identify younger women at higher risk of breast cancer.
“If people are concerned about their cancer risk, there are lots of ways to help reduce this such as not smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, getting plenty of exercise and staying safe in the sun.”
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