Cancer Rates Surge Among Young adults, Debunking Viral Misinformation
São Paulo – Diagnoses of cancer in young adults have risen dramatically in Brazil, increasing by 284% between 2013 adn 2024 within the country’s public health system (SUS), according too data analyzed by G1 from DataSUS.the startling increase has fueled online speculation linking the trend to vaccines, 5G technology, and pesticides, prompting health experts to address and refute these claims.
The surge in cases is raising concerns among medical professionals and the public alike,as cancer is historically considered a disease of older age.While the exact causes are complex and likely multifactorial, experts emphasize that lifestyle factors are the primary drivers, with diet, sedentary behavior, and obesity playing a significant role. This increase underscores the urgent need for preventative measures and early detection strategies targeted at younger populations.
responding to widespread anxieties, oncologists have categorically dismissed any connection between vaccines and cancer advancement. “Vaccines do not cause cancer,” stated Stephen Stefani, an oncologist at the oncoclínicas group. Similarly, experts clarified that while prolonged exposure to pesticides can present an increased risk, it is not considered the main contributing factor. Concerns surrounding 5G and Wi-Fi radiation were also addressed, with Stefani explaining, “These waves do not have enough energy to damage DNA.”
Despite debunking these theories, experts acknowledge that certain factors can contribute to cancer progression. Stress, while not a direct cause of mutations, can create an surroundings conducive to disease development. However, the most significant influence appears to be lifestyle choices. Samuel Aguiar, from the ACCamargo Cancer Center, highlighted the prevalence of lifestyle-related cancers, stating, “It’s a lifestyle disease. Only 5% of cases are hereditary; 90% are related to diet, sedentary lifestyle and obesity.”
The WHO has classified aspartame (an artificial sweetener) as “possibly carcinogenic,” but current intake limits are considered safe. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the complex interplay of factors contributing to the rise in cancer cases among young adults in brazil.
