‘Fast food speeding cancer incidence in under-50 age group’ | Lucknow News

Lucknow: For six years, a 35-year-old professional working in a multinational company and living away from home relied largely on processed food. Last year, he was diagnosed with stage-3 colorectal cancer at King George’s Medical University (KGMU). Symptoms appeared nearly 2 years ago when he developed persistent constipation and weakness. Initially, he relied on an Ayurvedic medicine for relief. “When weakness increased, I visited a doctor and took medicines. For some time, the problem seemed under control, but symptoms returned after a few months,” he said. One day, he was unable to pass stool and rushed to KGMU. Tests revealed stage-3 colorectal cancer. Surgeons performed an operation, and he is now undergoing chemotherapy.Doctors say such cases are becoming common. Specialists at KGMU report sharp rise in colorectal cancer among people under 50 in the past decade. The trend was highlighted at a programme on experiences of cancer survivors at surgical oncology department of KGMU. Head of surgical oncology Prof Vijay Kumar said, “10 years ago, of 100 colorectal cancer patients, about 90 were above 50 years old. Today, out of 100, nearly half are below 50.“Prof Kumar said genetics explains only a small share of cases. Nearly 95% of colorectal cancers are linked to lifestyle and dietary habits, particularly diets low in fibre and high in processed food. Low-fibre intake slows bowel movement, leading to chronic constipation. Fibre adds bulk to stool and helps waste move through intestine. When diet is dominated by refined and processed food, stool remains longer in the colon, increasing irritation and inflammation in intestinal lining. “If constipation and bowel problems continue for years and remain untreated, prolonged inflammation can develop into cancer,” said Dr Vijay Kumar . Oncosurgeon Dr Naseem Akhtar said, “An adult should consume 25 to 35 gms dietary fibre daily, but many in cities consume far less and consume refined and processed food,” he said.Fibre from whole grains, fruits, vegetables and pulses helps maintain bowel movement and supports healthy gut bacteria. Doctors say increasing these foods in daily meals can reduce colorectal cancer risk. Surgeon, Dr Sameer Gupta, said, “Once patients start feeling better, they revert to unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle, increasing chances of recurrence.”