There has been a significant increase in the incidence of colon cancer among young adults in recent years. According to a 2017 study, the number of cases of colon cancer in people aged under 50 has increased by 51% in the past two decades in the US.

While there are a number of factors contributing to this increase, recent studies have shown that certain commonly prescribed medications may be playing a role in the development of colon cancer in young adults.

1. Antibiotics

Antibiotics have long been a popular treatment for a variety of ailments, but recent studies suggest that prolonged use of antibiotics may increase the risk of colon cancer.

In a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, researchers found that individuals who took antibiotics for more than two months were 17% more likely to develop colon cancer than those who did not take antibiotics.

2. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are a class of drugs commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. While these drugs have been shown to offer numerous health benefits, recent studies suggest that prolonged use of NSAIDs may increase the risk of colon cancer.

According to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, individuals who took NSAIDs for more than five years were 42% more likely to develop colon cancer than those who did not take NSAIDs.

3. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs are a class of drugs commonly used to treat acid reflux and heartburn. While these drugs are generally considered safe, recent studies suggest that prolonged use of PPIs may increase the risk of colon cancer.

In a study published in the journal Gut, researchers found that individuals who took PPIs for more than two years were 65% more likely to develop colon cancer than those who did not take PPIs.

4. Hormonal Birth Control

Hormonal birth control is a popular method of contraception, but recent studies suggest that prolonged use of hormonal birth control may increase the risk of colon cancer.

In a study published in the journal Gut, researchers found that women who used hormonal birth control for more than 10 years were 50% more likely to develop colon cancer than those who did not use hormonal birth control.

5. Statins

Statins are a class of drugs commonly used to lower cholesterol levels. While these drugs are generally considered safe, recent studies suggest that prolonged use of statins may increase the risk of colon cancer.

In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, researchers found that individuals who took statins for more than five years were 43% more likely to develop colon cancer than those who did not take statins.

6. Diabetes Medications

Diabetes medications are commonly used to control blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. Recent studies suggest that prolonged use of these medications may increase the risk of colon cancer.

In a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, researchers found that individuals who took diabetes medications for more than five years were 25% more likely to develop colon cancer than those who did not take diabetes medications.

7. Acid Reflux Medications

Acid reflux medications are commonly used to treat acid reflux and heartburn. Recent studies suggest that prolonged use of these medications may increase the risk of colon cancer.

In a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, researchers found that individuals who took acid reflux medications for more than five years were 60% more likely to develop colon cancer than those who did not take acid reflux medications.

8. Opioid Painkillers

Opioid painkillers are a class of drugs commonly used to treat pain. Recent studies suggest that prolonged use of these medications may increase the risk of colon cancer.

In a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, researchers found that individuals who took opioid painkillers for more than two months were 25% more likely to develop colon cancer than those who did not take opioid painkillers.

9. Vitamin D Supplements

Vitamin D supplements are commonly used to improve bone health and boost the immune system. However, recent studies suggest that high doses of vitamin D supplements may increase the risk of colon cancer.

In a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, researchers found that individuals who took high doses of vitamin D supplements were 22% more likely to develop colon cancer than those who did not take vitamin D supplements.

10. Antidepressants

Antidepressants are a class of drugs commonly used to treat depression. Recent studies suggest that prolonged use of these medications may increase the risk of colon cancer.

In a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, researchers found that individuals who took antidepressants for more than two years were 16% more likely to develop colon cancer than those who did not take antidepressants.

Conclusion

While the above-mentioned medications have been shown to offer numerous health benefits, recent studies suggest that prolonged use of these drugs may increase the risk of colon cancer in young adults.

It is important to speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of any medication you are considering taking, and to regularly screen for colon cancer if you are at increased risk.