While Brinlee experienced intense symptoms like severe abdominal cramps and extreme fatigue, her identical twin, Mariela, remained symptom-free. This stark contrast has led many to question why cancers—especially colon cancer—are being diagnosed more frequently in young adults. Gastrointestinal oncologist Dr. Mark Lewis offers insight into potential causes behind this disturbing trend.
Brinlee’s symptoms were initially dismissed as stress-related, but her persistence led doctors to conduct further testing. The results revealed stage 4 colon cancer. She immediately began treatment, undergoing 30 rounds of chemotherapy. Today, she is cancer-free, but her recovery has been anything but easy.
Her twin sister, Mariela, opted to get a colonoscopy after Brinlee’s diagnosis, despite having no symptoms. Doctors discovered and removed precancerous polyps, potentially preventing future disease. Mariela now credits her sister’s experience with saving her life. According to Dr. Lewis, a combination of factors—including genetics, medication use, and lifestyle—may be fueling the surge in young cancer patients.
Could Antibiotics Be a Hidden Risk Factor?
One theory Dr. Lewis highlights is the potential role of antibiotics in increasing cancer risk among young people. He suggests that excessive use of antibiotics, particularly in childhood, may disrupt the gut microbiome—a vital ecosystem that supports immune health. When the gut’s balance is disturbed, the body may become more vulnerable to carcinogens. While the Luster twins didn’t speak about their own antibiotic history, Dr. Lewis argues that commonly used medications like antibiotics could have unintended, long-term effects.
Though this link is still being explored, future studies could change how we approach cancer prevention, especially in younger populations.
Genetics and Environmental Factors: A Complex Mix
While Brinlee’s family had no known history of colon cancer, Dr. Lewis emphasizes that spontaneous genetic mutations can still significantly increase cancer risk. However, genetics alone don’t explain the full picture. Environmental factors, such as diet, physical inactivity, and exposure to toxins, also play a crucial role.
Even minor genetic mutations, when combined with unhealthy lifestyle habits, can lead to early-onset cancer. This may help explain why more young people without family histories are now receiving such diagnoses.
The Lifestyle Link: Processed Foods, Obesity, and Inactivity
Dr. Lewis stresses the influence of lifestyle in this growing health crisis. Modern diets high in processed foods and low in fiber, along with sedentary habits, contribute heavily to cancer risk. Obesity—a known risk factor for colon cancer—is on the rise among younger populations. When these lifestyle factors intersect with genetic vulnerability, the result can be a higher risk of early cancer development.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Brinlee’s experience underscores the importance of early detection. Colon cancer often develops silently, with few symptoms in its early stages. This makes proactive screenings, like colonoscopies, essential—especially for individuals with family histories or other risk factors.
Mariela’s decision to get tested, prompted by her sister’s diagnosis, may have prevented a future cancer battle of her own. Her story is a powerful reminder that early screening can be lifesaving.
The Role of Stress and the Need for Balance
Although stress doesn’t directly cause cancer, Dr. Lewis notes that chronic stress can suppress the immune system and promote inflammation, making the body more susceptible to illness. Brinlee’s early symptoms were misattributed to stress, delaying critical intervention. Dr. Lewis advocates for stress management through exercise, mental health support, and balanced living—not just for emotional wellness, but potentially for cancer prevention as well.
Changing the Conversation Around Young Adult Cancer
Brinlee’s story is more than a personal journey—it’s a wake-up call. Dr. Lewis’s observations highlight the need for more research into how modern medicine, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors are affecting young people’s health. While much remains to be studied, one thing is clear: early detection and preventive care can save lives.
Raising awareness about the risk of colon cancer in young people and emphasizing the importance of routine screenings could help reverse current trends. Taking ownership of one’s health through regular checkups and healthier choices is key to reducing cancer risk.
Brinlee’s experience reminds us that cancer is no longer a disease limited to older adults. It can affect anyone—at any age. By focusing on prevention and early intervention, we have the power to protect the next generation.
