Study Reveals Rising Cancer Rates Among Gen X and Millennials Compared to Older Generations

A study on cancer trends in the U.S. reveals Gen X and Millennials have 2-3 times higher cancer rates than those born in 1955, with risks for 17 types of cancer increasing. Analyzing over 23.6 million cancer diagnoses from 2000-2019, researchers link rising rates to obesity, environmental pollutants, and diet. Early exposure to carcinogens is a significant risk factor. Notable increases include cancers of the pancreas, kidney, and thyroid, along with rising mortality for liver, colorectal, and endometrial cancers. However, HPV vaccinations have reduced cervical cancer, and smoking declines have lowered lung and esophageal cancers. Early detection advancements also contribute to reduced mortality. The study underscores the need to tackle modern health challenges like obesity and sedentary lifestyles to reduce cancer risks and improve outcomes for younger generations.