Researchers have released a study examining cancer rates in the United States, comparing different generations. They focused on cancer diagnoses and deaths, finding that Gen X and Millennials have cancer rates 2 to 3 times higher than those born in 1955. These younger generations are more likely to develop 17 types of cancer. The main factors for this increase include environmental toxins, diet, and obesity. However, more research is needed to understand other contributing factors.
In 2019, the same researchers noticed a rise in eight cancer types among newer generations. However, this recent study is the first to consider both cancer incidence and mortality by birth year. The goal was to fill a gap in available data. The researchers found that exposure to cancer-causing factors early in life increased cancer rates in people 50 and younger. As these groups age, more people may develop cancer in the future.
The study analyzed data from 23.6 million people diagnosed with 34 different cancers and 7.3 million deaths from 25 cancers. It found an increase in 17 cancers in Gen X and Millennials, including colorectal, pancreas, kidney, and liver cancers. Mortality rates also rose for five types of cancer, including liver and colorectal cancers. The researchers noted that these increases aren’t just due to better detection but represent a real rise in cancer risk.
One major cause of rising cancer rates is obesity, linked to 10 of the 17 cancers identified in the study. Obesity has risen in all age groups since the 1970s, particularly in those aged 2 to 19. Other factors include environmental pollutants and lifestyle changes like less sleep and more sedentary behavior.
The modern Western diet, high in processed foods, sugar, and fats, is also linked to cancers like colorectal and breast cancer. Researchers believe changes in the gut microbiome, affected by diet and antibiotic use, may play a role.
Despite the overall rise in cancer, the study found some positives. For example, women born around 1990 are less likely to develop cervical cancer due to HPV vaccinations. Lower smoking rates have also led to declines in lung and esophagus cancers. Early detection has helped reduce death rates, offering hope for future improvements.
