Tim Spector issues 'wake up call' and warns 'our children are at risk'

Professor Tim Spector has issued a "wake-up call" and warned that "our children are at risk". It comes as the professor of genetic epidemiology at King’s College London took to Instagram to discuss a rise in bowel cancer cases among people under 50.

Prof Spector, who is the co-founder of the health App Zoe, shared what he believes is behind the surge in cases. While things like consuming alcohol cause cancer, Prof Spector said, he believes something most of us do daily is contributing to the rate at which bowel cancer cases are surging in the UK: consuming ultra-processed foods.

He said: "A new study published in The Lancet Oncology reveals rates are soaring globally, with the UK experiencing the fastest increase in Europe and fourth-fastest worldwide. This is a wake-up call.

"The UK has some of the highest rates of bowel cancer in younger adults, and our reliance on ultra-processed foods is likely a contributor. Over 60% of our calories come from these 'convenience' foods, while 90% of us aren’t eating enough fibre.

"Consumption of processed meats, sugary drinks, and nutrient-poor foods remains high, and our children are at risk. @drsarahberry and I are helping to lead the UK arm of Team PROSPECT—a global team of scientists investigating rising EOCC rates and developing prevention strategies."

The professor went on to say that, yes, smoking, alcohol and obesity put people more at risk of developing cancer - but said that these factors don't fully explain the rapid rise.

The professor added: "Over the next five years, we’ll analyse millions of data points, including data from the @zoe app, to investigate modern risks like ultra-processed foods, air pollution, and antibiotic use."