More and more young adults are being diagnosed with colon cancer, and a new study now points to an overlooked culprit that has been hiding in plain sight.
American researchers believe a specific bacterial toxin may play a much bigger role than previously thought. Here’s what you need to know about this groundbreaking discovery.
Colibactin – The Hidden Toxin In The Gut
Researchers have zeroed in on colibactin, a toxic substance produced by certain E. coli bacteria in the gut, known for its ability to damage DNA and create mutations that can lead to cancer.
Young Adults Particularly Affected By The Mutations
The study revealed that colibactin-related mutations were over three times more common in cancer patients under 40 compared to those over 70, suggesting the exposure to the toxin might be critical at an early age.
Childhood As A Critical Window
Data indicates that the harmful impact likely occurs before the age of 10, making childhood a particularly vulnerable period when gut flora can be shaped for life.
Unexplained Rise – Until Now
The number of young adults diagnosed with colon cancer has surged significantly over the past two decades, especially in Western countries. While the cause remained a mystery, colibactin might now offer an important piece of the puzzle.
Not Just About Genetics – Environment Plays A Key Role
Until recently, genes were often blamed, but this study hints that environmental factors, bacterial composition, and early lifestyle choices could be stronger drivers of the disease than previously acknowledged.
Hypotheses On Why Exposure Has Increased
Scientists suspect that ultra-processed foods, early use of antibiotics, and increased rates of C-sections could explain why more children are exposed to colibactin-producing bacteria.
Experts Warn Against Oversimplified Conclusions
Despite the breakthrough, experts emphasize that it’s still unclear if colibactin alone causes the cancer cases. Lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, and genetics may also play a significant part.
Global Cancer Genome Analysis Provides New Clues
The study is based on an analysis of nearly 1,000 cancer genomes from patients across 11 countries, giving the researchers a solid data foundation to detect patterns and genetic footprints.
Colon Cancer Screening May Need A Rethink
These findings could lead to a re-evaluation of how and when people are screened for colon cancer—especially among younger adults, where the disease has been considered rare until recently.
An Important Piece Of A Complex Puzzle
Although scientists do not have the complete picture yet, the colibactin study offers a crucial clue that cancer development may begin earlier than previously believed—and that the gut microbiome may play a much larger role than we have recognized.
This article is based on information from Videnskab.dk