Cancer has been seen as a disease of aging, but now it is frightening statistics that reveal the rise of early-onset cancers among millennials. Estimates indicate that about 1.9 million people are newly diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. every year. This number will increase to 2.3 million by 2030. More and more studies are indicating that lifestyle disorders, such as an unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, stress, and disrupted sleep patterns, may be a cause for which younger populations are increasingly becoming vulnerable to malignancies, including rare and aggressive types of cancer.

Has COVID-19 Worsened the Cancer Epidemic?

It has not been new news that viruses can provoke or accelerate cancer development, but research is still ongoing to understand the long-term impact of COVID-19 on cancer risk. What has already been determined, however, is that the pandemic indirectly worsened the outcomes of cancer. Delayed screenings, postponed treatments, and risks of increased mortality have all been noted globally.

The Lancet Public Health published research that underlines these consequences, indicating that the pandemic slowed or even reversed the declining cancer mortality rates observed before SARS-CoV-2 emerged. Delays in surgeries and chemotherapy treatments significantly impacted survival rates. For example, every four-week delay in colon cancer surgery increases the risk of death by 6%, while similar delays in adjuvant chemotherapy for colorectal cancer elevate mortality risk by 13%.

How Lifestyle Choices Are Driving Early-Onset Cancers

Dr. Priya Tiwari, Head of Medical Oncology, says that lifestyle choices play a critical role in the increasing incidence of cancer among young adults.

Poor diet rich in processed foods, high sugar, and red meat. Obesity and metabolic disorders are so closely linked with various cancers says Dr. Tiwari, "A sedentary lifestyle further compounds this risk, creating insulin resistance, vitamin D deficiency, and chronic inflammation, factors that are more strongly associated with colorectal and breast cancers,"

Susceptibility is further aggravated by tobacco usage, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to carcinogens. Stress and sleep deprivation also disrupt the balance of hormones and compromise immune function, leading to an environment conducive to tumorigenesis.

The association between stress, inflammation, and cancer.

Millennials face unprecedented levels of stress, driven by work pressures, financial instability, and excessive screen time. Chronic stress triggers the sustained release of cortisol and inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α, which fuel systemic inflammation.

"Prolonged inflammation weakens immune surveillance, making the body less capable of detecting and eliminating cancerous cells before they grow uncontrollably," explains Dr. Tiwari.

The circadian rhythms have been disrupted due to late-night working hours and increased exposure to blue light. Decreased melatonin production, which is a natural cancer-fighting hormone, is associated with a higher incidence of hormone-related cancers, including breast and prostate cancer.

Are Rare and Aggressive Cancers on the Rise Post-Pandemic?

There is a rise in rare and aggressive cancers, which have been reported by medical experts post-pandemic, and possible reasons for this increase may include delayed screenings and lingering inflammatory effects from COVID-19. Many patients avoided routine health check-ups at the height of the pandemic, and this has led to late-stage diagnoses of malignancies like sarcomas, glioblastomas, and neuroendocrine tumors.

In addition, there is a theory that SARS-CoV-2 might have a part in tumor progression due to cytokine storms induced by interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. This state of chronic inflammation might accelerate the growth of the tumor in predisposed individuals.

Should Millennials Start Cancer Screening Early?

Earlier, cancer screenings were typically recommended to the older people. However, with the increase of early-onset cancers among the young, screening guidelines have been revised for younger groups of populations. According to Dr. Tiwari, while universal screening is perhaps not required, screening should start earlier in cases of genetic predisposition or family cancer history.

Screening Requisiste includes:

1. Mammograms for women below 40 years of age who have a family history of breast cancers.

2. Colonoscopy for patients with a history of colorectal cancer in their family.

3. Pap smears and HPV tests for cervical cancer starting at age 21.

4. Skin exams for melanoma for those with increased sun exposure or family history.

How To Balance Lifestyle Choices And Reduce The Risk Of Developing Cancer?

Dr Priya emphasises, "A healthy lifestyle that includes nutrition, exercise, and stress management can prevent cancer in young adults. An antioxidant diet rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids decreases inflammation and protects against carcinogenesis. Exercise improves the regulation of insulin levels and inflammatory cytokines, thereby lowering risks of obesity-related cancers. Limiting tobacco and alcohol consumption as well as exposure to environmental toxins such as PAHs and endocrine disruptors can also reduce the risk of cancer further. Improved sleep hygiene, mindfulness for stress management, and other circadian rhythm-enhancing behaviors can also decrease the immunosuppressive effects of cortisol and therefore improve overall health."

Cancer prevention in young adults is only possible through preventive lifestyle changes. A healthy diet, regular exercise, stress control, and minimal exposure to known carcinogens will greatly reduce the risk of cancer. Here is a concise list of changes you should make now:

• Eat a Healthy Diet
• Increase antioxidant intake through foods such as berries, nuts, and leafy greens.
• Choose whole grains instead of refined carbohydrates.
• Use sources such as salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts to increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Stay Physically Active
• Perform at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly.
• Limit sedentary time for extended periods by incorporating moving activities during the day.
• Manage Stress in a Healthy Way
• Use mindfulness, which may include meditation and deep breathing, to manage the changes.
• Work-life boundaries can help alleviate chronic stress and prevent burnout.
• Improve Sleep Hygiene
• Reduce exposure to screens before bedtime to preserve melatonin.
• Develop sleep habits that allow for at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
• Limit Exposure to Hazardous Substances
• Cut back on alcohol consumption and quit smoking.
• Limit exposure to environmental toxins like PAHs and endocrine disruptors.

Increasing incidence of cancer in the millennial age group demands the need for urgent awareness and lifestyle changes. There is certainly a genetic contribution to cancer; however, lifestyle determinants, including diet, exercise, and management of stress, can all affect the course of cancer.

"Preventive care, including routine screenings and healthier lifestyle choices, holds the key to reducing the risk of cancer for young adults," said Dr. Tiwari. "Making conscious adjustments today will help millennials safeguard their health for tomorrow."

Since cancer trends continue to evolve, embracing proactive health measures, and then keeping prevention at par with treatment, will be imperative in reducing future burden caused by this disease.

Dr. Priya Tiwari is Head of Medical Oncology at Artemis Hospitals in India.

Heart disease often develops silently over many years, and waiting for symptoms to appear can be dangerous. While many people focus solely on cholesterol numbers, experts say it’s important to go beyond routine blood work to gain a complete understanding of heart health.

Cardiac surgeon Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty highlights the tests that can uncover hidden risks before they become serious.

Why Blood Tests Alone Aren’t Enough

Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty in an interview with CNN News18 said, “Apart from the blood tests, they should go for an echocardiogram of the heart, they should go for the Electrocardiogram (ECG), and a CT angio or a calcium score at least, a CT scan of the heart in simple terms to know whether the abnormal cholesterol has affected the heart,” Dr. Shetty explains.

What Is an Echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram, or echo, is an ultrasound test that uses sound waves to create real-time images of the heart. It allows doctors to evaluate the heart’s structure, function, and blood flow. This noninvasive procedure can help diagnose and monitor conditions such as valve problems, damage from a heart attack, or congenital heart defects. A probe is placed on the chest to capture echoes from the heart tissues, explains Mayo Clinic.

What Is an Electrocardiogram?

An ECG, or Electrocardiogram, measures the heart’s electrical activity. It records signals that indicate heart rate and rhythm and can help detect heart attacks, arrhythmias, and an enlarged heart, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

What Is a CT Angiogram?

A CT angiogram is a non-invasive scan that combines a CT scan with contrast dye to create 3D images of the heart’s blood vessels. It helps identify narrowed or blocked arteries that may cause chest pain or other symptoms. Patients lie on a table that slides into the scanner while receiving a contrast dye injection and holding their breath when instructed.

This test can also determine whether a patient needs a more invasive coronary angiogram, which can be used for both diagnosis and treatment.

Additional Screening With Carotid Doppler

Dr. Shetty also recommends carotid doppler scans to assess arterial health. “If it has affected the heart, we can do a carotid doppler to find out whether it has affected the arteries. If the arteries are all clean, if the heart is clean, of course we should do everything possible to reduce the cholesterol,” he says.

This test examines the carotid arteries in the neck, which supply blood to the brain. Early detection of narrowing or blockages can prevent strokes and other complications, giving patients an opportunity to manage risks proactively.

Lifestyle First, Medication Later

While testing is crucial, Dr. Shetty emphasizes that lifestyle changes should come first. “I would not go to the extreme form of very high dose of all these medicines and starting the medicine from day one, first get lifestyle modification, dietary changes, weight loss and if all the thing does not work, maybe they can start with a small dose of lipid lowering drugs to see whether it will make a difference,” he says.

Maintaining a heart-healthy diet, staying active, and managing weight can have a significant impact on cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular risk.

Early Detection Matters

Dr. Shetty stresses that coronary artery disease begins much earlier than most people realize. “We are not very aggressively following up with this lipid lowering strategy because patient at the age of 50 has not developed any damage to the coronary arteries, very very unlikely that they will develop from beginning at the age of 50, very unlikely. Coronary artery disease always starts at a very very young age.”

The key takeaway is clear: don’t wait for symptoms. Early screening with targeted heart tests, combined with lifestyle management, can significantly reduce long-term risks and help maintain a healthy heart well into later life.

A mutated strain of flu has sparked an unusually early wave of infections across the UK, and health experts warn it could become the country’s worst flu season in ten years. Health officials recently issued an urgent “flu jab SOS,” encouraging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible. NHS England reports that flu cases are already three times higher than this time last year, even though the peak of the season is still ahead.

Getting vaccinated remains the most effective way to protect yourself from severe flu. Still, many people are puzzled when they catch the flu despite having taken the shot. Here’s why.

The Flu Is Caused by Different Types of the Influenza Virus

• Influenza A – This is the most widespread type and spreads easily from person to person. The subtypes most often seen in humans are A(H1N1) and A(H3N2), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Influenza B– Though less common, Type B also spreads among humans. It can still be serious, though it tends to be milder than Type A. Influenza B viruses fall into two main lineages: B/Yamagata and B/Victoria.

The flu shot is designed to protect against both major Type A strains and at least one, sometimes both, Type B lineages. Because these viruses evolve quickly, scientists adjust the vaccine each year based on which strains have been circulating in other parts of the world during the previous six months.

Why Did I Catch the Flu Even After Taking the Vaccine?

Your age can strongly influence how well your body responds to the vaccine. Infants and young children are at higher risk because their immune systems are still developing and may not have produced enough antibodies to fight a new virus.

Older adults, on the other hand, may have weaker immune systems due to age or existing health issues like diabetes, kidney or liver disease, or cancer. For this reason, the CDC recommends a higher-dose flu shot for adults over 65 to help boost their immune response.

Flu Shot Takes Two Weeks to Work

Another common reason people get sick even after vaccination is timing. The body needs time, usually about two weeks, to develop enough antibodies after getting the shot. If you are exposed to the flu virus during this window, before your immune system has fully responded, you could still fall ill.

Could I Be Mistaking Another Viral Infection for the Flu?

It’s possible. Not every cough, fever, or sore throat is the flu. Viruses like RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), rhinovirus, or some types of coronavirus can cause similar symptoms. The flu vaccine only targets influenza viruses, so it won’t protect you against these other infections.

The Flu Virus Keeps Changing

Unlike many viruses, influenza mutates constantly. This ongoing change, called mutation, makes it a moving target for scientists. Researchers track global patterns to predict which strains are likely to dominate, and vaccines are then formulated accordingly.

If the virus shifts after the vaccine has been made, the match between the vaccine and the circulating strain may not be perfect. Even then, vaccination still helps, reducing your risk of catching the flu and making the infection less severe if you do get sick.

The flu vaccine isn’t a guarantee against every illness, but it remains your best defense against serious flu, hospitalisation, and complications. Even in years when the match isn’t exact, getting vaccinated greatly lowers the chance of severe disease and saves lives.

The new study shows that more and more American adults are having serious trouble with their memory, concentration, and ability to make decisions. This is a growing concern, and the problem is rising fastest among people under the age of 40. When people think about cognitive issues like memory, focus, etc., they associate it with older age, like the 70s and 80s. However, reports of these problems appearing much earlier are steadily increasing. But why is that?

The research, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Neurology, suggests this is not just a personal concern but a public health issue connected to factors like income and education.

The study reviewed health surveys taken between 2013 and 2023. They categorized people as having a "cognitive disability" if they reported having serious difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions because of a physical or mental condition.

Who is Is Affected The Most By Memory Loss?

The overall number of adults reporting these thinking and memory problems went up significantly over ten years. However, the most surprising and worrying part of the study was the trend among young adults. For people under 40, the reported rates of difficulty with focus and memory nearly doubled, jumping from about 5% to almost 10%.

At the same time, older adults (age 70 and up) actually saw a slight decrease in their reported problems. This huge jump in younger people suggests a new and serious issue. Even though the survey relied on people telling the researchers how they felt, the rapid increase among younger people points to a developing public health issue that could affect their health, their work, and the healthcare system for decades to come.

What Are A Few Causes Of Poor Brain Health?

The study clearly shows that money and education play a big part in who is struggling with cognitive issues. People with lower incomes reported the highest rates of memory and focus problems, and their rates are rising the fastest. For adults earning less than $35,000 a year, the rate of reported issues soared.

In contrast, people earning over $75,000 only saw a much smaller increase. A similar pattern was seen with education: people who didn't finish high school reported much higher rates than college graduates, and their rates also increased more steeply. This suggests that the people already dealing with financial or structural disadvantages are the ones seeing the biggest decline in their reported brain health.

Other Risk Factor of Poor Brain Health

The increase in memory and thinking problems was observed across almost all racial and ethnic groups. However, some groups reported much higher rates than others. For example, American Indian and Alaska Native adults reported the highest percentage of cognitive challenges overall, and their rates of reported problems also increased substantially over the decade.

Hispanic and Black adults also saw significant increases. The researchers believe these findings indicate that the groups who already face larger structural disadvantages in society are experiencing the sharpest rise in these thinking and memory issues. The study authors emphasized that we need more research to understand the social and economic reasons behind these large, growing differences.