Ever wonder why health issues like chronic diseases and serious health conditions show at a younger age than in previous generations? That’s a phenomenon that’s described as a universal problem or disorder across different diseases. It’s not actually something that’s tied to one cause; rather, it’s an interplay of different causes like your environment, economy, and one’s lifestyle factors. Admittedly, it’s alarming since early-onset cancers target many age groups, no matter how young or old a person is.
To understand the causes of early-age diseases, we’re examining the “birth cohort effect.” It refers to a confluence of factors that began in the latter half of the 20th century, creating a biological window for diseases. These key drivers include the world’s exposure to environmental toxins like microplastics and chemicals we tie to our lifestyle. They’re those ultra-processed foods, chronic stress from our economic instability, and the lifestyle shifts of screen time and sleep deprivation. Here’s an overview of the evidence and key statistics that explore why millennials are facing a premature health crisis early age.
Rise of Early-Onset Cancers
The phenomenon of the birth cohort effect is supported by major research institutions like Harvard University and the National Cancer Institute, as they’ve documented an increase in about 10 common types of cancer under 50 years of age, according to Dr. Timothy Rebbeck of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The rise is seen in the 20-29 age group, which is not only occurring in the US, but globally. A pattern of numerous tumor sites isn’t even seen on this scale since the rise of lung cancer in the mid-20th century.
Did you know that someone born in 1990 has a quadruple risk of developing rectal cancer? Yes, they also have it with colon cancer compared to someone born in 1950. Meanwhile, from 2020 to 2019, there have been 14 incidents of different cancer types in people under 50. In fact, early-onset colorectal cancer is already becoming the leading cause of cancer deaths among young adults in the US, according to the National Cancer Institute.
The trends shown suggest that there are factors beyond genetics which would go back to environmental and lifestyle changes that already started several decades ago. Most of these cancers are actually of late-stage upon diagnosis of patients, which indicates a failure of early detection and a lack of awareness, even among physicians. This requires a shift in how public health strategy works, along with screening guidelines and a focus on research.
What’s With the Environment?
Now, let’s talk about the modern environment in which we live. Every day, we face synthetic chemicals, microplastics, and ultra-processed foods that we associate with biological aging and the rise of these early-onset diseases like cancer. Research about this focuses on the exposome or the totality of exposure to these factors, which studies link with hormonal imbalances, chronic inflammation, DNA damage, and metabolic changes that trigger cancer and other chronic illnesses.
With that, the CDC estimates that nearly all Americans have toxic “forever chemicals” stuck in their blood, with microplastics being discovered in human placentas, lungs, and brains. If we look at its dominance, we’ll notice that global production of synthetic chemicals has almost doubled since the year 2000, with over 100,000 found in the market. Also, ultra-processed foods account for more than half of the total daily intake in the country. As Dr. Gary Patti from Washington University in St. Louis said, we have changed what we’re exposed to just from the past few decades.
The Weight of Chronic Conditions and Economic Burden
Beyond cancer, millennials are also experiencing the burden of chronic physical and mental health conditions. Even Dr. Yin Cao from Washington University in St. Louis stated that it’s not only about cancer, but rather, a universal problem from different diseases. A 2022 CDC report highlighted that the common issues of these chronic conditions, as early as 18-34 years old, are obesity, depression, and high blood pressure. They’re connected with physical ailments that are linked to mental health conditions and the like.
We also have to look at the chronic financial stress that’s driven by student debt and economic instability. Combine it with the increase of social isolation, which declines millennial mental health, along with physical health. Just imagine entering the workforce during economic downturns, which can lead to chronic stress that’s linked with high rates of anxiety, depression, and insomnia. That’s loneliness, which is associated with risks of heart diseases, stroke, and premature death.
Looking at the statistical reports, student loan borrowers show 56% with anxiety and 32% with depression because of death. Sadly, 84% of millennials put off their health checkup or screening because of its high cost. This proves that economic instability affects their access to healthcare and ability to make healthy lifestyle choices.
The Double-Edged Sword of Modern Lifestyles
True enough, technology offers convenience, especially with millennials’ lifestyle patterns. However, it also comes with risks like sedentary behavior and sleep deprivation linked to health risks. But the common ground for all of these is that an increase in your screen time due to work or entertainment purposes is tied to obesity, depressive symptoms, and sleep problems.
Millennials are often dubbed the tired generation because of not having proper rest as they balance careers with personal life. This pattern sees a rise in obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. It’s crucial, especially with. working professionals to take action towards their use of technology and sleep hygiene to improve their health outcomes.
With the convenience brought to us by modern life, let us not forget the health risks it also brings. As millennials, it is up to you to take care of your health by being aware of your environment and knowing when to stop. We should start by reducing our exposure to environmental toxins, like choosing whole foods. Prioritize preventive healthcare also by committing to checkups to learn what we need to do or stop. But most of all, this is a call to our government bodies and institutions to prioritize the health and welfare of employees. The bottom line is that we should champion universal healthcare at all costs.