Modern diet to blame for increased risk of colon cancer among younger UAE population, say experts

According to Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health, colon cancer affects people in the UAE 15 years earlier than those living in America

A diet high in red meat and low in fibre may increase risk of colon cancer among younger populations. Courtesy Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

An improper diet and sedentary lifestyle are known to have numerous long-term consequences on one’s overall health. And, according to experts at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, obesity and a diet high in processed meats and low in fibre can also lead to an increased risk of colon cancer at a younger age.

Colorectal cancer comes in the form of malignant tumours on the inner wall of the large intestine, and has typically been diagnosed in an older population globally. But modern diets may be the reason it is increasingly affecting younger generations. The problem is more pronounced in the UAE, where colon cancer has been affecting people 15 years earlier than their American counterparts, according to Abu Dhabi's Department of Health. The youngest person ever to be diagnosed with colon cancer in the UAE was only 16.

“One of the most important, and modifiable, reasons that is causing colon cancer in younger patients is their poor lifestyle choices,” says Dr Aydamir Alrakawi, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist at the Digestive Disease Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.

“We see young people eating more processed foods and red meat and reducing their fibre intake, which are known risk factors for colon cancer.”

Dr Alrakawi recommends minimising intake of processed meats and animal fats, and including between 25 and 35 grams of fibre from cereals, whole grains, vegetables and fruits daily.

“Two to three hours of medium-intensity exercise, walking or sports per week may contribute to reducing colon cancer growth and improve patient outcomes,” he says.

Recommendations from the American Cancer Society suggest that people with an average risk of colon cancer should start regular screening at the age of 45 instead of the initial prescribed age of 50. But considering the increased risk among younger UAE populations, health authorities recommend UAE residents start getting screened for the cancer from the age of 40. Meanwhile, those with a history of colon cancer should start screenings even earlier.

A nationwide survey conducted in 2018 by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi found that fear of potential pain, testing positive for the disease, embarrassment and social stigma were factors that stopped respondents from getting a colonoscopy.

“This is telling because it shows a need to bolster efforts in reassuring the public that we have come a long way in screening and innovative treatments that are quick, painless and discreet,” says Dr Alrakawi.