NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — Cancers in younger adults are surging. Colon cancer, once a midlife disease, is striking earlier than ever. Breast and kidney cancers are also climbing in people under 50. And now, a new study reveals appendix cancer. Once considered extremely rare, is not so rare anymore, specifically among Generation X and Millennials.
Thirty years ago, Hollywood legend Audrey Hepburn died of appendix cancer at just 63. Today, doctors say more people are facing the disease even earlier …
Just last year, 42-year-old actor Adan Canto succumbed to the same cancer. Now Vanderbilt researchers warn that appendix cancer is quietly rising in younger adults.
“Compared to their parents, Gen Xers and Millennials are three to four times more likely to be diagnosed with appendix cancer,” said Andreana Holowatyj, PhD, assistant professor of medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
While appendix cancer is rare, about 3,000 new U.S. cases are diagnosed each year.
“One in every three appendix cancers is diagnosed in adults under 50,” Prof. Holowatyj told Ivanhoe.
She says the symptoms can be easy to overlook, including abdominal pain, constipation, pelvic pain, or bloating, and they often linger for months.
“Most of these appendix cancers are diagnosed after an appendectomy,” said Prof. Holowatyj.
Researchers don’t yet know what’s driving the increase.
“It may be a constellation of genetics, lifestyle, the environment and other exposures,” explained Prof. Holowatyj.
She stresses the bottom line for younger adults: know your body and don’t ignore persistent changes.
Prof. Holowatyj emphasizes that while the trend is worrisome, appendix cancer is still uncommon. But unlike colon cancer, where screenings now start at age 45, there is currently no standard test to detect appendix cancer, leaving awareness of symptoms as the only defense.
Contributors to this news report include: Marsha Lewis, Producer; Matt Goldschmidt, Videographer; Chuck Bennethum, Editor.
Sources:
* For More Information, Contact: Criag Boerner
Assistant Director, Media Director, & National News Director at Vanderbilt University Medical Center
(615) 322-4747
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