‘Western diet’ blamed for growing risk of GI cancers among young adults

‘Western diet’ blamed for growing risk of GI cancers among young adults

Processed meats, sugary drinks and refined grains identified as potential risk factors

The report notes that recent generations are more likely to adopt a "Western-pattern diet" and a sedentary lifestyle. (iStock)

Adults born in 1990 have twice the risk of colon cancer and four times the risk of rectal cancer compared to those born in 1950. (iStock)

"We need to conduct more research on whether diet, vitamin supplements, alcohol or other things we ingest or use are contributing to this increase," an oncologist said. (iStock)