Rise in Rare Appendix Cancer Among Millennials and Gen X: Study

A recent study has revealed a sharp rise in appendix cancer among Millennials and Gen X, sparking concerns among researchers and healthcare professionals. The findings, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, highlight a troubling trend in younger generations, prompting calls for further investigation into potential environmental and lifestyle factors.

A rare form of appendix cancer is increasing among Generation X and Millennials, according to a new study, with its incidence rising significantly compared to prior generations.

Research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine on Monday indicates that appendiceal adenocarcinoma (AA) rates have surged among younger adults, based on an analysis of data from the National Cancer Institute database.

Although appendiceal adenocarcinoma is increasing across all age groups, researchers believe that understudied birth cohort patterns may hold clues to its root causes.

Experts from Vanderbilt University Medical Center analyzed data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program of the National Cancer Institute, which tracked appendix cancer cases from 1975 to 2019. Their findings emphasize the need for further research into potential environmental and lifestyle factors contributing to the upward trend.

Data show that appendix cancer rates have increased fourfold among those born in 1985 and tripled among those born in 1980, compared to individuals born in 1945.

Although appendix cancer remains rare—with approximately 3,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the U.S.—it represents only a small fraction of the 150,000+ cases of colorectal cancer reported each year. However, researchers have identified a distinct generational trend in its occurrence.

Between 1975 and 2019, a total of 4,858 cases of appendix cancer were recorded, reflecting a steady increase over the decades.

Experts note that the rising incidence of appendix cancer mirrors trends seen in other gastrointestinal cancers, such as colorectal and stomach cancers, which have also been increasing among individuals under 50.

The rising incidence of appendiceal adenocarcinoma (AA) among younger generations may be associated with lifestyle changes—such as diets high in ultra-processed foods and increasing obesity—but further research is needed to confirm these links.

Dr. Andreana Holowatyji, the study’s lead author, emphasized that the surge in cases is not due to a rise in appendectomies, as surgery rates have remained stable over time. Instead, the trend points to broader lifestyle shifts and environmental risk factors as potential contributors.

“There is a disproportionate burden of appendix cancer among young individuals,” Dr. Andreana Holowatyji told NBC News, highlighting the urgency of further research into the phenomenon.

Detecting appendix cancer early remains challenging, as its symptoms—bloating, changes in bowel habits, and appetite loss—can often be vague and mistaken for less serious conditions.

While the exact causes are yet to be determined, scientists stress the need for more extensive research into environmental exposures and molecular changes that may be fueling the rising prevalence of appendix cancers.

What to Watch For: Early Symptoms of Appendix Cancer

• Persistent bloating.

• Changes in bowel habits.

• Unexplained appetite loss.

• Abdominal discomfort.

These symptoms are nonspecific and may resemble common digestive issues. Persistent signs should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

The Urgent Need for Awareness and Research

Given the rising incidence among younger adults, medical experts emphasize the importance of early detection, regular check-ups, and further scientific research to understand why Millennials and Gen X are disproportionately affected.

Healthcare professionals advise individuals to maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and be mindful of potential carcinogenic exposures. Those experiencing persistent digestive issues should seek medical advice to rule out serious conditions.

As scientists continue to explore the factors driving this trend, raising awareness about appendix cancer—and the growing risks for younger generations—remains crucial.

References

1. Andreana N. Holowatyj, Mary K. Washington, Richard M. Goldberg, et al. Birth Cohort Effects in Appendiceal Adenocarcinoma Incidence Across the United States. Ann Intern Med. [Epub 10 June 2025]. doi:10.7326/ANNALS-24-02479

2. Kelly, Kaitlyn J. "Management of appendix cancer." Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery 28, no. 04 (2015): 247–255. [Kelly, 2015]

3. Ruoff, Carl, Louay Hanna, Wanqing Zhi, Ghulamullah Shahzad, Vladimir Gotlieb, and Muhammad Wasif Saif. "Cancers of the appendix: review of the literature." International Scholarly Research Notices 2011, no. 1 (2011): 728579. [Ruoff et al., 2011]
   

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