Cancer diagnoses among women and young adults in the United States are on the rise, according to a recent report by the American Cancer Society (ACS).
This trend marks a historic shift in the country’s cancer statistics, as, for the first time since the early 20th century, women have a higher incidence of the disease than men, particularly in the under-65 age group.
While overall mortality has decreased significantly, disparities by gender, age, and race in cancer rates remain a major concern.
The report, titled “Cancer Statistics,” analyzes data collected between 1991 and 2021 and details both positive and concerning patterns. According to William Dahut, chief scientific officer at the ACS, “cancer is the leading cause of death for people under 85 years old” in the United States.
Additionally, an estimated 2 million new diagnoses and 618,000 cancer deaths are expected in the U.S. this year. “This is equivalent to losing two mid-sized cities in this country,” he added.
Rising Cancer Rates Among Women
One of the most notable changes in this analysis is the increase in breast cancer and thyroid cancer cases among young and middle-aged women. According to Rebecca Siegel, scientific director at the ACS, thyroid cancer was one of the fastest-growing cancers in recent decades, though it has recently stabilized. Meanwhile, breast cancer continues to be a key driver of these numbers.
This trend has led to an 82% higher cancer incidence in women under 50 compared to men in the same age group. The data also shows that in 2021, lung cancer rates in women under 65 surpassed those in men for the first time, with rates of 15.7 versus 15.4 per 100,000 people.
Despite these increases, cancer still primarily affects those over 65, who remain the highest-risk group. However, the report notes a concerning rise in diagnoses among people aged 50 to 64, as well as those under 50, suggesting a shift in the epidemiological profile of cancer in the country.
Racial Disparities
The report not only highlights gender differences in diagnoses but also focuses on racial disparities. According to its findings, Native Americans are two to three times more likely than white individuals to develop kidney, liver, stomach, and cervical cancers.
In another notable case, African American women are less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer compared to white women, but their mortality rate is higher. In fact, they are 50% more likely to die from cervical cancer than white women, a disparity reflecting issues in access to and quality of medical care.
While advances in medical technology, improvements in early diagnosis, and the overall decline in tobacco use have significantly reduced cancer mortality, underlying inequalities hinder further progress.
Since 1991, the cancer death rate has dropped by 34%, translating to 4.5 million deaths prevented. However, this positive trend has not been uniform.
Ahmedin Jemal, senior vice president of the ACS and a lead author of the report, emphasized that “ending discrimination and inequality in cancer care for all populations is essential.”
Prostate cancer also shows an alarming increase. According to the report, rates of this cancer have risen by 3% annually since 2014, the largest increase among common cancers.
This contrasts with the overall decline in cancer incidence among men in recent decades, further reducing their historical advantage over women in general statistics.
While recent figures highlight progress in the fight against cancer, researchers warn that factors like racial and economic inequalities and the rising incidence among young adults could threaten future advancements. The ACS projects 2,041,910 new cancer cases and 618,120 related deaths in the U.S. for 2025.
Pandemic Impact
In hindsight, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic also influence these recent trends. During lockdowns and health restrictions in 2020, delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment occurred, potentially leading to diagnoses at more advanced stages and, consequently, worse outcomes.
A study cited by The Guardian estimates there could be between 4,000 and 7,000 additional colorectal cancer deaths by 2040 due to these delays.
Based on these findings, the study’s authors conclude that investment in prevention, early diagnosis, and equitable medical treatment will be necessary to effectively address the detected inequalities.
Experts emphasize that the fight against cancer depends not only on technological advances but also on ensuring fair and equitable access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved communities.
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