Cancer is becoming a disease for younger women and middle-aged adults in the US, with certain cancers affecting Black and Native Americans at higher rates than white Americans. According to a new report from the American Cancer Society, cancer survival rates are improving overall, but the trend is shifting towards more cases occurring in young people and women. Some of the most common increasing cancers include breast, uterine, colorectal, prostate, melanoma, and pancreatic cancer.
The rising trend among younger women includes early-onset cancer, where cancer rates increase among women under 50. This shift is attributed to a decline in smoking-related cancers and prostate cancer among older men, as well as a rise in new cases of cervical cancer, particularly among women aged 30-44. Lung cancer incidence in women under 65 has also surpassed that of men.
Breast cancer rates have been increasing, with hormonal factors contributing to the rise. Postponing childbirth or breastfeeding can increase breast cancer risk, while genetics and family history are also risk factors. Uterine cancer survival rates have actually decreased over the past 40 years.
Pancreatic cancer is now the third leading cause of cancer death and has seen a decades-long increase in incidence among both men and women. Obesity is believed to contribute to this increased risk.
Experts point to lifestyle and environmental exposures as possible contributing factors to the rising trend. Maintaining regular sleeping patterns, a healthy body weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption may help prevent certain cancers. Regular cancer screenings and addressing genetic and family history risks can also reduce cancer risk.
The American Cancer Society emphasizes that individuals have control over their cancer risk through lifestyle changes and preventive measures. By making informed choices, people can significantly reduce their risk of developing cancer.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/16/health/cancer-younger-women.html