The biological age of the organism may warn of cancer risk

The process of youth and aging is extremely complex and not solely dependent on genetics. Thanks to the advancement of science, we are now able to measure how quickly our bodies age. Understanding our biological age creates new opportunities for more effective treatment of cancer and can also help in prevention.

The incidence of cancer, particularly among young adults, has increased alarmingly in recent times. Worldwide, cases of colorectal cancer among young people have risen dramatically, indicating a 60-70% increase even in the most well-off countries. In Hungary, the situation is particularly severe, as cancer diseases represent the highest proportion in mortality statistics. The number of cancer cases here translates to 336 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants annually, which exceeds the EU average by more than 30%.

This figure is not just a statistical data point, but a warning that the risk of diseases begins much earlier than many might think. For this reason, it is important to monitor our biological age, as this indicator more accurately reflects future health risks than our chronological age.

The Relationship Between Biological Age and Cancer Prevention

Biological age, which refers to the functional state of our bodies and cells, plays a crucial role in determining disease risk. Research has shown that when our biological age exceeds our chronological age, cells become more fatigued, regenerate more slowly, and the risk of chronic inflammation also increases. Consequently, the risk of cancer or metabolic disorders also rises.

According to research from the University of Miami, individuals whose biological age is aging faster than their chronological age are significantly more likely to develop early warning signs of colorectal cancer. For every year that the body ages more quickly, the risk of developing colorectal polyps increases by 16%. Therefore, tracking biological age may represent a new approach in cancer prevention, as it is not only the duration of life that matters but also the rate at which our bodies age.

This realization provides an opportunity for prevention to become more effective, as it is not just about how many years someone has lived, but also about how quickly they have aged. Monitoring biological age could open a new dimension in the fight against cancer and contribute to the development of more effective treatment methods.

Biological Age as a Health Indicator

Recent research suggests that our biological age may be one of the most reliable predictors of our long-term health and lifespan. Those whose biological age is higher than their chronological age are at significantly greater risk not only for cancers but also for heart diseases, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. Large population studies indicate that accelerated biological aging increases the risk of diseases by 5-10% annually.

Dr. Anna Balázs, the lead researcher, emphasized that our biological age is not a fixed value. In light of the latest research findings, we can significantly slow down the aging processes through conscious decisions and lifestyle changes. This not only improves our health but also enhances our quality of life.

Overall, monitoring and consciously managing our biological age offers new possibilities in the fields of prevention and treatment. In the future, understanding biological age could play a key role in reducing the risk of diseases and preserving our health.