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Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. Through the blood and lymph systems, these cells can form tumors, invade nearby tissues, and spread to other parts of the body. There are many types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, and many more.
Cancer cells can arise from different types of cells in the body and can have unique characteristics, depending on the type of cancer. Some common risk factors for cancer include genetic mutations, exposure to certain chemicals and substances, radiation exposure, certain infections, lifestyle factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, and family history of cancer.
Cancer can have various symptoms depending on the type and stage of cancer, and it may be diagnosed through diverse methods, such as imaging tests, biopsies, blood tests, and other specialized tests. Treatment options for cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, and other specialized treatments, which are often used in combination based on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient. Early detection, lifestyle changes, and appropriate treatment can be key factors in improving outcomes for individuals with cancer.
What is the incidence of cancer in the United States?
The incidence of cancer in the United States has varied over time and depends on the type of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Facts & Figures 2021, an estimated 1.9 million new cases of cancer were expected to be diagnosed in the United States in 2021.
Some of the most common types of cancer in the United States, based on estimated new cases in 2021, include breast cancer, lung and bronchus cancer, prostate cancer, colon and rectum cancer, melanoma of the skin, bladder cancer, kidney and renal pelvis cancer, endometrial cancer, leukemia, and pancreatic cancer, among others. However, the incidence of cancer can vary by year, age, sex, race, ethnicity, geographic location, and other factors.
What is the cancer mortality rate in the United States?
According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated 609,360 deaths from cancer are expected to occur in the United States in 2022, which is about 1,670 deaths a day.
The cancer mortality rate is affected by various factors, including the type of cancer, stage at diagnosis, access to quality healthcare, treatment options, lifestyle factors, and other individual and societal factors. Some of the most common types of cancer that account for a significant portion of cancer-related deaths in the United States include lung and bronchus cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, liver cancer, and ovarian cancer, among others.
Which states have the highest and lowest cancer mortality rate?
Cancer mortality rates can vary by state in the United States due to various factors such as differences in risk factors, healthcare access, screening and early detection practices, and population demographics. However, it’s important to note that cancer mortality rates can change over time and may be influenced by various factors.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the states with the highest age-adjusted cancer death rates in the United States in 2020 were generally located in the southeastern region, and included states such as Kentucky, West Virginia, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas, among others. These states have historically had higher rates of tobacco use, obesity, and other risk factors associated with cancer.
The states with the lowest age-adjusted cancer death rates in the United States are generally located in the northeastern region and included states such as Hawaii, Vermont, Minnesota, Connecticut, and New York, among others. These states have historically had lower rates of tobacco use, better access to healthcare, and other factors that may contribute to lower cancer mortality rates.
Top 5 states with highest cancer death rates (deaths per 100,000 standard population)
Kentucky – 177.3
West Virginia – 177.0
Mississippi – 176.0
Oklahoma – 171.1
Tennesse – 164.4
Top 5 states with lowest cancer death rates (deaths per 100,000 standard population)
It’s worth noting that age-adjusted cancer death rates take into account differences in age distribution among populations, allowing for comparisons across different populations with varying age structures. However, other factors, such as race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and access to healthcare, can also radically influence cancer mortality rates and may vary by state.
Utah – 119.5
Hawaii – 123.8
Colorado – 127.2
Arizona – 127.7
New York – 128.8
How has the cancer mortality rate changed in the United States?
The cancer mortality rate in the United States has changed over time due to various factors such as advancements in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment, changes in risk factors, improvements in healthcare access, and changes in population demographics. Overall, there has been a declining trend in cancer mortality rates in the United States over the past few decades, although the rates for specific types of cancer and certain populations may have varied.
According to data from the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the overall cancer death rate in the United States has been declining steadily since the early 1990s. From 1991 to 2018, the cancer death rate declined by about 31% in men and 21% in women. This decline has been attributed to several factors, including decreased tobacco use, improvements in cancer screening and early detection, advancements in cancer treatment options, and increased awareness about cancer prevention and healthy lifestyle choices.
The maps below show cancer mortality in the United States from 2005 to 2020 created by Reddit user ColeWRS, using data from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data and script to produce these maps also can be found on GitHub.
However, it’s important to note that the trends in cancer mortality rates can vary by type of cancer and population subgroup. Some types of cancer, such as lung cancer, have shown significant declines in mortality rates due to reduced smoking rates, while other types of cancer, such as liver and pancreatic cancer, have shown less progress in terms of mortality rates. Disparities in cancer mortality rates also exist among different racial/ethnic groups and socioeconomic strata, with some populations experiencing higher cancer mortality rates compared to others.
Percent change in cancer mortality 2005-2020, per 100,000 population
State
Percent Change
NJ
−27.89
MA
−27.43
NY
−25.72
MD
−25.26
NV
−24.55
CT
−24.32
RI
−24.20
DE
−24.11
NH
−23.60
FL
−23.60
WA
−23.37
LA
−23.35
MT
−23.14
CA
−22.85
VA
−22.84
NC
−22.38
SC
−22.35
GA
−22.27
AZ
−22.23
TX
−21.86
TN
−21.83
OR
−21.82
ID
−21.82
PA
−21.68
IL
−21.45
ME
−21.14
AR
−21.14
AL
−20.94
CO
−20.35
NM
−20.32
MO
−20.25
OH
−19.69
IA
−19.54
WY
−19.44
KY
−19.08
SD
−18.89
WI
−18.65
IN
−18.57
KS
−18.43
MI
−18.33
ND
−18.18
HI
−18.18
MN
−17.93
AK
−15.96
NE
−15.90
MS
−15.75
UT
−15.19
WV
−14.66
OK
−13.59
VT
−13.47
How to reduce the chances of getting cancer?
Reducing the chances of getting cancer involves a combination of lifestyle changes, regular health screenings, and risk factor management. Here are some general tips:
Don’t smoke and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke: Smoking is a major risk factor for many types of cancer, including lung, mouth, throat, pancreas, bladder, kidney, and cervix. Quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke can significantly reduce your risk of developing cancer.
Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help lower your risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer. Limiting processed foods, sugary beverages, and red meat can also be beneficial.
Stay physically active: Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, can help reduce the risk of developing cancer, including breast, colon, and endometrial cancers. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening exercises at least twice a week.
Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including liver, mouth, throat, esophageal, and breast cancer. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation, which means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
Protect yourself from the sun: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Protect your skin by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, such as hats and long-sleeved shirts, and using broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on exposed skin.
Get vaccinated: Certain viruses, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B, and hepatitis C, can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer. Getting vaccinated against these viruses, when applicable, can reduce your risk.
Practice safe sex: Using condoms and getting regular check-ups for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as cervical, anal, and liver cancer.
Get regular health screenings: Regular health screenings, such as mammograms, Pap tests, colonoscopies, and skin checks, can help detect cancer early when it is most treatable. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for appropriate screenings based on your age, sex, and family history.
Manage stress: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and increase inflammation, which can potentially contribute to cancer development. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing mindfulness, exercising, or talking to a therapist.
Avoid exposure to environmental toxins: Minimize your exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins in your environment, such as asbestos, radon, and industrial chemicals, as they may increase the risk of certain cancers.
It’s important to note that while these tips can help reduce the risk of developing cancer, they do not guarantee complete prevention. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, knowing your family history, and being aware of any changes in your body are also important for early detection and treatment of cancer.
