Recent studies have shown that 17 types of cancer are more prevalent among Millennials and Generation X compared to older generations, sparking concern among medical professionals. Dr. Daniel Spratt, a professor of radiation oncology at the School of Medicine, has weighed in on the potential causes of this worrying trend, suggesting that factors beyond obesity and lifestyle may be at play.
In a recent interview with Everyday Health, Dr. Spratt pointed out that shifts in family planning could be contributing to the rise in certain cancers, particularly among biological females. “Another contributing factor that may increase the risk of select cancers in biological females is that women now tend to have fewer children and have their first pregnancy later in life,” Dr. Spratt explained. “This trend has increased over time.”
He further elaborated on the protective benefits of childbirth against certain cancers, particularly breast and ovarian cancer. “There is a protective effect against various cancers when women have children. However, as the number of women who either delay childbirth or choose not to have children continues to rise, we may see an associated increase in these cancer types,” he added.
Dr. Spratt’s insights underscore the complex interplay between modern lifestyle choices and health risks, suggesting that shifts in societal norms around family planning could have unintended consequences on long-term health. As research continues, understanding these links will be crucial in developing targeted prevention strategies for future generations.