A new American Cancer Society report revealed women in some age groups are being diagnosed with cancer more often than men. The findings suggested that higher cancer rates are shifting from men to women, and the gaps between sexes, as well as between older and younger adults, have narrowed greatly.
The American Cancer Society’s data also noted cancer rates in women ages 50 to 64 are now higher than in men.
In 2021, women under 50 years old had an 82% higher cancer rate than men the same age. In 2002, it was only a 51% higher rate than men.
The research showed an increase in cancer diagnoses among younger Americans.
While the American Cancer Society said it is unclear what is driving the increase in women and younger adults, it listed possible factors. Obesity, alcohol use, ultra-processed foods, smoking and environmental hazards are among possible contributors.
The American Cancer Society said racial disparities in cancer rates still exist, with minorities seeing higher rates of cancer diagnoses.
The study also found overall cancer death rates fell by 34% since their peak in the early 1990s.
