It may seem surprising, but scientists say it: having older siblings may be associated with a higher risk of early-onset colon cancer. To reach this conclusion, the researchers sifted through data from 500,000 adults and excluded known variables that increase the risk of colon cancer, such as family history, body weight, and smoking. After analysis, the scientists found an association between the two factors, but could not say for sure that they were linked, although they say it was entirely “plausible.”
In their study, published in the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the researchers put forward several hypotheses. The first suggests that younger children in families are more likely to be exposed to childhood illnesses, diseases that can damage the intestines and make them vulnerable to tumors. These infections also increase the likelihood of being prescribed antibiotics, which have been linked to colon cancer. The second hypothesis suggests that parents who have multiple children are more likely to pass on genetic mutations that cause cancer.
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Results to be taken with a pinch of salt
As for the third hypothesis, it implies that younger siblings are born from older sperm and eggs than their elder siblings. This would increase the risk of genetic mutations, which “could persist in children and possibly lead to cancer earlier in life”. Finally, as the last hypothesis recalls, older children bring more processed foods into the home. A phenomenon that would encourage the little ones to eat anything. “Typically, as children get older, they have more access to sugary drinks and processed foods, both at school through peers and at home, and often these snacks are shared among siblings, exposing younger siblings to these dietary risk factors for colorectal cancer,” said Dr Jen Dunphy, an oncologist, quoted by the Daily Mail.
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Faced with these results, Dr. Suneel Kamath, an oncologist specializing in early-onset colorectal cancers, wanted to express his opinion. “I doubt many people will limit the number of children they have based on these findings,” he said, explaining that this research could be useful for young people who have symptoms that suggest colorectal cancer. “Perhaps their doctors, if they are aware of these results, could refer them for a colonoscopy earlier if they are the youngest child in the family.”
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