A new report from the American Cancer Society reveals a concerning trend in cancer rates among younger adults and women. For the first time since the early 1900s, cancer is now more common among women than men in the US.
The study, which analyzed data between 1991 and 2021, found that over 2 million new cancer diagnoses are expected this year, resulting in 618,000 cancer deaths – equivalent to losing two mid-sized cities. Women under 65 are now more likely to be diagnosed with cancer than men in the same age group.
Breast cancer and thyroid cancer are driving this increasing trend among women. Despite some stability in thyroid cancer rates, it was the fastest-increasing cancer during the study period.
Cancer rates also vary by age group, with increases seen for those under 50, between 50-64, and above 65. However, being over 65 remains the greatest risk factor for cancer.
The report highlights racial and gender disparities in cancer rates, including higher incidence rates for Native Americans, black women’s increased risk of death from breast and cervical cancers, and prostate cancer’s sharp 3% yearly increase.
While progress has been made in reducing cancer mortality by 34% since 1991, the shift in frequency from men to women is concerning. The report emphasizes the need to address discrimination and inequality in cancer care for all populations to close the persistent gap and ultimately end cancer as we know it.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/jan/16/cancer-young-women-adults