A study from the Indiana Cancer Control Plan found two in five Hoosiers now living will eventually have cancer. Photo by Adobe Stock.

By Terri Dee
Indiana News Service

INDIANA — Cancer rates are on the rise, and doctors are noticing specific types in younger age groups.

Two in five Hoosiers will eventually have some form of the disease. A 2023-2027 Indiana Cancer Control Plan study reports lung, lymphoid, colorectal, breast, kidney-urinary and prostate are the most diagnosed cancers in the state.

Dr. Raphael Cuomo, a clinical cancer epidemiologist and professor at the University of California-San Diego, said studies show over the last few decades, external factors are behind the upswing in cancer cases.

“We’re seeing some of the sharpest increases in colorectal, breast and pancreatic cancers, especially in adults under age 50, particularly those in their 30s and 40s,” Cuomo reported. “The speed at which these cases are climbing suggests that lifestyle and environment, and not genetics, are driving the increase.”

Cuomo explained the influx of high-sugar, low-fiber ultra-processed foods, smoking and alcohol consumption is emerging as a front-runner for increasing the risk of developing cancer. He suggested better lifestyle choices to reduce obesity and boost physical activity levels can lower the odds of receiving a cancer diagnosis.

The effects of PFAS, or forever chemicals, on the environment is well documented. Cuomo advised Hoosiers to reduce their direct exposure to products containing PFAS and other endocrine-disrupting pollutants. He suggests avoiding plastic containers, especially items with Bisphenol A, a chemical that mimics the estrogen hormone in the body.

“A good water filter can also help reduce PFAS exposure,” Cuomo recommended. “Switching to personal-care products that don’t have parabens or phthalates is another step you can take. There have been some phthalates, such as diethylhexyl, which has been classified by the World Health Organization as a possible human carcinogen.”

Diethylhexyl is also found in the manufacturing of food, beverage and tobacco products, fabrics, lawn care items, textiles and leather products. Further research on the effects of regular exposure to these items shows a link to kidney cancer. Cuomo suggests avoiding nonstick cookware, another source of PFAS chemicals.