A growing number of younger residents in the UAE are being diagnosed with cancer, a trend that medical experts are linking to modern lifestyle factors such as obesity and physical inactivity. Health professionals are raising concerns over the increasing prevalence of cancers, particularly among Gen X and millennials, urging a collective focus on preventive measures to address this emerging health crisis.
Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, president of the Emirates Oncology Society, revealed that 25.4% of all cancer diagnoses in the UAE occur in individuals under the age of 40. This alarming statistic is mirrored across both Emirati and expatriate communities and spans both genders. Colorectal and breast cancers are notably on the rise among younger populations, with a significant portion of these cases diagnosed in individuals under 40 years old.
According to Dr. Tarek Al Khouri, a specialist in medical oncology at Thumbay Advanced Cancer Centre, the uptick in cancer cases is closely tied to lifestyle choices that have become more common in recent decades. “Obesity, poor diet, and a lack of physical activity are major contributors to this increase. These factors are leading to higher risks for cancers such as those of the colon, kidney, and liver,” he explained in a Khaleej Times report.
The findings align with a global study published in Lancet Public Health, which showed that millennials and Gen X are more susceptible to 17 types of cancers, many of which are linked to obesity. Dr. Al Khouri emphasized that modern sedentary lifestyles, combined with high consumption of processed foods and sugars, are fueling this rise in cancer cases among younger generations.
Experts are advocating for immediate action to reverse this trend. They recommend adopting healthier diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, increasing physical activity, and ensuring regular health screenings. “Preventing obesity and promoting an active lifestyle are crucial steps in reducing the risk of cancer among younger populations,” said Prof. Al Shamsi.