By the Numbers: Cancer deaths falling, but diagnoses rising among women, younger adults

While cancer death rates in the U.S. have continued to fall over the past two decades, a new report highlights a concerning trend: more women and younger adults are being diagnosed with cancer.

The Annual Report to the Nation on the Status of Cancer presents a detailed picture of how incidence and mortality rates are shifting—driven by factors like obesity, alcohol use, and changes in reproductive health.

The Numbers

1.7%: Annual decline in cancer deaths among men (2018–2022)

Between 2018 and 2022, cancer death rates dropped by an average of 1.7% per year among men. This marks continued progress following decades of public health efforts and advances in treatment.

1.3%: Annual decline in cancer deaths among women (2018–2022)

Women saw a similar trend, with an average yearly decline of 1.3% in cancer-related deaths.

12 of 19: Common cancers in men with decreasing death rates

From prostate to melanoma and colon cancer, 12 of the 19 most common cancers in men showed mortality declines. Lung and bronchus cancer had the steepest drop, falling by 4.5% each year.

14 of 20: Common cancers in women with decreasing death rates

Among women, cancers, including breast, cervical, ovarian, and kidney, saw reduced mortality. Lung and bronchus cancer again led the decline with an annual drop of 3.4%.

0.3%: Annual rise in cancer incidence among women (2003–2021)

Although death rates are falling, more women are being diagnosed. The report notes a small but steady 0.3% yearly increase in new cases for nearly two decades.

42%: Drop in breast cancer death rates since 1989

Despite more diagnoses, breast cancer outcomes have improved dramatically, thanks to screening and treatment advances.

16%: Breast cancer cases linked to alcohol use

Alcohol is a known contributor to breast cancer risk. The report underscores how lifestyle choices can impact cancer rates.

Under 50: Increase in obesity-linked cancers

More people under age 50 are developing cancers tied to obesity, such as pancreatic, kidney, and breast cancer.

1.5%: Annual decline in child cancer deaths (2001–2022)

Cancer death rates for children have steadily dropped, with a 1.5% average annual decline across two decades.

Stable: Cancer death rates among adolescents and young adults (2020–2022)

After years of improvement, the death rate for AYAs (ages 15–39) has leveled off in recent years.

Why These Numbers Matter

The numbers show a dual reality: while more people are surviving cancer, others—especially women and younger adults—are being diagnosed more often. The report highlights the role of lifestyle, reproductive trends, and early screening in shaping cancer outcomes.

What Comes Next

Experts continue to emphasize the importance of routine cancer screenings and public health efforts targeting obesity and alcohol use. Doctors urge people to stay proactive about their health, especially as more research connects preventable risk factors to cancer diagnoses.