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- A recent report indicates an upward trend in cancer cases among females and younger adults in the United States.
- Notably, for the first time, the cancer rates for females aged 50 to 64 have exceeded those of their male counterparts.
- The underlying causes for these trends remain unclear; however, experts suggest potential links to low physical activity, elevated alcohol consumption, and diets rich in ultra-processed foods.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) reported a significant 34% decrease in cancer death rates from 1991 to 2022 in the United States, according to a publication dated January 16.
The Cancer Statistics, 2025 report attributes this decline primarily to reductions in the four most prevalent cancer types: lung, colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers.
However, new cancer cases, referred to as incidence, have risen for various cancer types during this timeframe, especially among females and younger adults.
For instance, the report highlights that cancer incidence among females aged 50 to 64 has, for the first time, surpassed that of males. Furthermore, the cancer rate in females under 50 is now 82% higher than in males, a significant rise from 51% in 2002.
Additionally, lung cancer incidence is notably higher in females than in males among individuals under 65. This discrepancy is attributed to variations in smoking initiation and cessation patterns among women, as indicated in the report.
The report also pointed out a continuous rise in both incidence and mortality rates associated with pancreatic cancer for individuals of all genders. The five-year survival rate for patients diagnosed with pancreatic exocrine tumors remains a mere 8%, which constitutes 90% of pancreatic cancer cases.
“Early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer is challenging, as there are no screening tests available, unlike those for colon cancer,” explained Dr. Nilesh Vora, a hematologist and medical oncologist who serves as the medical director of the MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute in Long Beach, CA. Dr. Vora was not involved in the report.
“The advancements in pancreatic cancer treatment have not kept pace with those seen in other cancers, such as lung cancer, melanoma, and colon cancer,” Dr. Vora told Healthline.
Overall, the report projects approximately 2,041,910 new cancer diagnoses in the U.S. in 2025, with an estimated 618,120 cancer-related deaths.
Despite the anticipated high number of new cancer cases in 2025, the cancer death rate has decreased by 34% from 1991 to 2022. This reduction has resulted in nearly 4.5 million fewer cancer cases, according to the report.
“For those diagnosed with cancer, the mortality rate continues to decline significantly,” noted Dr. Kathleen K. Harnden, medical director of breast oncology at Inova Schar Cancer Institute in Fairfax, VA, who did not participate in the report.
“Individuals facing a challenging diagnosis should remain hopeful as the likelihood of being cured and living cancer-free post-treatment is increasing,” Dr. Harnden shared with Healthline.
“Our advancements in treatment regimens and diagnostic methods have improved, allowing for earlier detection of cancer,” Dr. Vora remarked. “Moreover, people are living longer than they did three decades ago, contributing to the decline in mortality rates. This suggests that more individuals are living with cancer than in the past,” he added.
Dr. Harnden emphasized that the development of advanced multi-disciplinary care—where patients benefit from coordinated efforts between surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists—has also played a crucial role in enhancing cancer survival rates in the U.S.
“This collaborative approach accelerates patient care,” she explained. “All healthcare providers communicate effectively, reviewing the same data to formulate a comprehensive treatment plan for the patient’s cancer care.”
The reasons behind the rising cancer burden among females and younger individuals in recent years are not fully understood, but experts have proposed several potential factors.
“We have discussed issues such as insufficient physical activity and the growing rates of obesity, as well as dietary changes,” Dr. Vora stated. “While there is no definitive conclusion, these aspects warrant further investigation.”
Dr. Harnden noted that “as individuals become more absorbed in screen-based activities or hold sedentary jobs—where walking between offices is minimal—this can elevate their cancer risk.”
“Emerging evidence also suggests that shifts in dietary habits play a role,” she added. “Increased consumption of ultra-processed foods may raise cancer risk, while a decline in vegetable intake can contribute to the same.”
“I am particularly concerned about the rising obesity rates, especially among women,” Dr. Harnden expressed. “As obesity levels increase, the risk of breast cancer rises correspondingly with each additional five pounds.”
Furthermore, higher alcohol consumption has been linked to several types of cancer. The report indicated an increase in cases of oral cavity, breast, and liver cancers, all associated with alcohol intake.
The report also unveiled disturbing disparities in cancer mortality rates. Native American populations experience cancer death rates two to three times higher than those of white individuals for kidney, liver, stomach, and cervical cancers.
Additionally, Black individuals face double the risk of mortality from prostate, stomach, and uterine corpus cancers compared to white individuals. They are also 50% more likely to die from cervical cancer, which is preventable through the HPV vaccine.
“The disparities in cancer care continue to be a sobering reality,” Dr. Harnden commented.
It is imperative that we persist in enhancing cancer screening initiatives, ensuring equitable access to these vital resources for everyone, irrespective of their socioeconomic or cultural backgrounds. Dr. Vora echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of engaging with underserved communities to raise awareness about cancer prevention and treatment options.
Accessibility in cancer treatment is crucial. It is vital to ensure that all patients receive the necessary treatments they require. As Dr. Harnden mentioned, individuals can take proactive steps to lower their cancer risk. Simple lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol intake and incorporating more physical activity into daily routines, can significantly enhance overall health.
The American Cancer Society’s report, Cancer Statistics, 2025, showcases the progress made in reducing the cancer death rate in the U.S. Nonetheless, concerning trends persist, such as the rising cancer incidence among women aged 50 to 64, now surpassing that of men for the first time. These trends may be linked to factors like alcohol consumption, low physical activity, and diets high in ultra-processed foods.
It is essential for individuals to take control of their health by making informed decisions and embracing healthier lifestyles. By remaining proactive and informed, we can strive to alleviate the cancer burden and promote overall well-being for everyone.
