Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Why Is Cancer Increasing in Young Adults and People Without Risk Factors?
Speaker
Professor Ludmil Alexandrov
Coordinator
Jerry Kent
A growing concern today is the rise of cancers in people who are young or who lack traditional risk factors. Lung cancer in never-smokers and early-onset colorectal cancers are becoming more common worldwide. Emerging evidence suggests that modern diets, environmental exposures, “forever chemicals,” and changes in the gut microbiome may all contribute to this shift. We use large datasets and advanced AI tools to uncover the underlying, potentially preventable causes of these trends. This talk will highlight what current science reveals about these emerging patterns and how new approaches can help reduce cancer risk.
Speaker Bio
Ludmil Alexandrov is a Professor of Cellular and Molecular Medicine with a joint appointment in Bioengineering at UC San Diego. His laboratory develops advanced AI and genomic technologies to improve cancer prevention and treatment. His work has earned numerous awards, and the American Society of Clinical Oncology has recognized his research as a milestone in cancer science. He trained at the University of Cambridge and the Los Alamos National Laboratory.
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