Cancer, long considered primarily a disease of aging, is increasingly affecting younger individuals, particularly women, according to a recent report from the American Cancer Society, the New York Times reports.
While advancements in treatment have led to higher survival rates overall, troubling trends indicate a rise in certain cancers among younger and middle-aged women.
The report highlights several significant developments:
- Increasing Incidence Among Women: Cancer rates are climbing among women under 50 and those aged 50 to 64. Breast, uterine, and colorectal cancers are among the most concerning, with breast cancer rates rising approximately 1% annually since 2012.
- Early-Onset Cervical Cancer: New cases of cervical cancer are increasing among women aged 30 to 44, despite being widely preventable through regular screening. However, many women have postponed routine gynecological visits, potentially contributing to this trend.
- Disparities in Mortality Rates: Black and Native American populations are experiencing cancer death rates two to three times higher than those of white Americans, underscoring persistent health disparities.
Emerging Patterns and Concerns:
- Lifestyle Factors: Changes in fertility patterns, such as delayed childbirth and reduced breastfeeding, along with increased alcohol consumption and obesity, may be fueling the rise in certain cancers.
- Environmental and Behavioral Influences: Experts are increasingly exploring the role of environmental exposures and modern lifestyles, including irregular sleep patterns and dietary habits, in the surge of early-onset cancers.
The report highlights that cancer rates among women are outpacing those in men in key categories. For instance, lung cancer incidence in women under 65 surpassed that of men in 2021. Smoking remains a significant contributor, with its impact reflecting differences in smoking patterns and cessation efforts between genders.
Public health officials emphasize the importance of preventive measures. These include maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and adhering to recommended screening schedules.
“Small changes can make a big difference,” noted Rebecca L. Siegel, an epidemiologist and lead author of the report.
