2025 Cancer Trends
A Look at Cancer Trends in the U.S.
The American Cancer Society’s recently released annual report of cancer trends provides a deep dive into cancer incidence, death rates and survival. The publication is a go-to resource and forms the basis for vital, ongoing research into the causes and risk factors of cancer as well as transformational treatment discoveries.
Report Summary
According to the report, just over 2 million new cancer cases will be diagnosed in the U.S. during 2025, averaging about 5,600 new cases daily. The projected number of cancer-related deaths for the year is 618,120. On the bright side, cancer mortality (the number of deaths from cancer) continues to decline in both men and women, a result of reductions in smoking, better treatments and earlier detection for some cancers.
An Upward Trend Among Younger People
The report also shines the light on some concerning trends related to the most common cancers:
- Women ages 50 to 64, as well as those under 50, now have higher rates of cancer compared to men in the same age groups. Women under age 50 are 82% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer than men, a significant increase from 51% in 2002.
- The surge among women is largely due to higher incidences of breast and thyroid cancers, alongside rising cases of lung and cervical cancers.
- Rates for lung cancer among younger American women have surpassed those of males, particularly in cases of adenocarcinoma, a common subtype of lung cancer.
- The incidence of colorectal cancer among younger adults is rising as well.
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What’s Behind the Trends?
The reasons for the increases in several early-onset cancers in younger women and men are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute.
Delaying childbirth and reduced breastfeeding rates have been linked with increased breast cancer risk, as well as a rise in alcohol consumption, obesity and physical inactivity. Genetics can also play a role. Younger women diagnosed with breast cancer are more likely to carry BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, which significantly elevate risk.
While smoking remains the primary risk factor for lung cancer, the upward trend among younger women is not fully explained by smoking behaviors. Studies indicate that even in populations where smoking rates between young men and women are similar, women exhibit higher lung cancer rates. Nearly 20% of lung cancer diagnoses in women occur among non-smokers, which suggests that other factors contribute, but definitive causes have not yet been determined.
Researchers are also investigating various potential causes for the upward trend in colorectal cancers. Modern diets, exposure to environmental toxins and lifestyle factors are among the likely potential causes.
Racial & Ethnic Disparities Persist
Large and persistent disparities also exist between different racial and ethnic groups. Alaskan and American Indians experience the highest cancer mortality rates. The Black population has the second highest mortality for prostate, breast and endometrial cancers (2x that of every other group) and Black women are 50% more likely to die of cervical cancer.
Across all races, some cancers have a strong genetic component and some appear to run in families, while age, overall health, lifestyle and environmental factors also contribute to cancer risk. Research has cited economic and social impacts as primary reasons for the higher impact of cancer among Black Americans—among them, limited access to quality healthcare, lower socioeconomic status and lack of health insurance, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.
Reducing Cancer Risk
One of the best ways all people can reduce cancer risk is by taking the time to prioritize health and well-being. Plan ahead and schedule appointments for recommended wellness checkups and cancer screenings. A growing number of screening tests are effective at finding and even preventing cancer, often before signs or symptoms appear. When detected early, certain cancers are much easier to treat. Preventive health care and screening tests are necessary even if you are feeling fine. Talk with your doctor about what is right for you, based on your own health, family health history and personal risk factors.
Hope Behind the Numbers
While it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the numbers, it’s important to focus on the dramatic, ongoing discoveries that continue to enhance our understanding of cancer and uncover lifesaving treatments that are providing hope and enabling people with the disease to enjoy life to the fullest.
Reference: American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2025. Atlanta: American Cancer Society; 2025
