Global cancer diagnoses in those under 50 have surged nearly 80% since 1990, with sugar and refined flour identified as major culprits.
Did you know? Cancer rates in people under 50 have seen a dramatic increase, signaling a critical shift in global population health.
The alarming rise in cancer diagnoses among individuals under 50 has experts sounding the alarm. A comprehensive meta-analysis published in BMJ Oncology in 2023 revealed a striking 79.1% global increase in 29 types of cancer in this age group between 1990 and 2019. The most significant upticks were observed in breast, colon, endometrium, and stomach cancers, according to the report by Huang J, et al.
The Insidious Link Between Diet and Disease
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Cardiologist Aurelio Rojas is unequivocal: “There are two foods that are killing you,” directly pointing to sugar and refined flour. At the heart of this concern is insulin, a hormone that, when chronically elevated, can act as a growth stimulant for tumor cells. Research by Gallagher and Lerith, published in 2010, explains that “chronic hyperinsulinemia has been related to a higher risk of cancer due to its pro-mitogenic and anti-apopototic effect, stimulating IGF-1 and roads like PI3K/AKT/MTOR.”
@doctorrojass You knew … but now you understand why. 🍞 + 🍬 = 🔥 Chronic insulin = cancer + infarction shares this. It is urgent. Scientific summary: 1️⃣ Cancer aument in young people * A recent meta -analysis (BMJ Oncology, 2023) analyzed 29 types of cancer in children under 50 and found a global increase of 79.1% between 1990 and 2019, the most growing being breast, colon, endometrium and stomach. * Source: Huang J, et al. Global Trends in Early-Oset Cancer Burden and Risk Factors. BMJ Oncology. 2023. DOI: 10.1136/BMJONC-2023-000126 2️⃣rol of insulin as a promoter of tumor growth * Chronic hyperinsulinemia has been linked to a higher risk of cancer due to its pro-mitogenic and anti-apototic effect, stimulating IGF-1 and pathways like PI3K/AKT/MTOR. * Source: Gallagher EJ, Lerith D. Hyperinsulinaemia in Cancer Pathogenesis. Nat Rev Cancer. 2010; 10 (2): 93–103. 3️⃣Azúcar and refined flours such as hyperinsulinemia inductors * Diets with high glycemic index and high glycemic load raise postprandial insulin chronic, and have been associated with greater risk of colorectal cancer, breast and pancreas. * Source: Mulholland HG, et al. Glycemic Index, Glycemic Load and Cancer Risk: A Meta-Analysis. Br J Cancer. 2008; 99 (7): 1170–1182. 4️⃣ Cardiovascular Risgo linked to the consumption of sugar and refined flours * The evidence is overwhelming: the usual consumption of added sugars and refined carbohydrates increases the risk of cardiovascular events, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. * Source: TE MORENGA L, et al. Dietary Sugars and Body Weight: Systematic Review and Meta-Analys. BMJ. 2013; 346: E7492. #sugar #cancer #insulin ♬ Original sound – Aurelio Rojas Sánchez
The rapid digestion of sugar and refined flours leads to sharp spikes in blood glucose. This forces the pancreas to release significant amounts of insulin. Mulholland and colleagues noted in 2008 that “diets with high glycemic index and high glycemic load have been associated with greater risk of colorectal cancer, breast and pancreas.”
Beyond Cancer: The Cardiovascular Connection
The impact of chronically elevated insulin levels extends beyond cancer risk, directly contributing to cardiovascular problems. As TE MORENGA and their team highlighted in their 2013 study, “The usual consumption of added sugars and refined carbohydrates increases the risk of cardiovascular events, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.”
Rojas urges a proactive approach to health: “if you really want to protect your health, start by eliminating what makes you sick.” This means making conscious choices and prioritizing natural, nutrient-dense foods. A balanced diet should center on fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.
The Power of Whole Grains and Lean Proteins
Whole grains are another cornerstone of a healthy diet. Unlike their refined counterparts, they retain their fiber and micronutrient content. This aids in a slower release of glucose, effectively preventing insulin surges. Lean proteins, such as chicken, fish, legumes, and eggs, provide essential amino acids without an excess of saturated fats. Pairing these with healthy fats from nuts, olive oil, avocado, or fatty fish supports cardiovascular health and promotes satiety.
The Crucial Role of Physical Activity
Rojas also emphasizes the importance of integrating regular physical activity with a balanced diet. Exercise enhances insulin sensitivity, helps maintain healthy glucose levels, and reduces chronic inflammation—a key factor in both cancer development and cardiovascular disease. Studies indicate that active individuals face a lower risk of hyperinsulinemia and a reduced incidence of certain cancers, even with moderate carbohydrate intake.
Ultimately, Rojas’s warning is not about inciting fear but fostering awareness. While sugar and refined flour are significant risk factors, they are also among the most accessible dietary components for individuals to modify. Embracing healthier eating habits is a powerful form of preventive medicine.
