The increase in cancer rates from the 1980s to the present can be attributed to a variety of factors. One key reason is the aging and growth of the population. As people live longer, the likelihood of developing cancer increases, simply because cancer is more common in older individuals. This is a major factor in the rise in diagnoses for many common cancers, including breast, prostate, endometrial, pancreatic, kidney, and melanoma.

Another contributing factor is the rise in early-onset cancers, particularly among people under 50 years old. This increase, which has been observed globally since around 1990, includes cancers such as breast, colon, esophagus, kidney, liver, and pancreas. Researchers have identified several possible culprits for this trend, including changes in the early life “exposome,” which encompasses diet, lifestyle, weight, environmental exposures, and microbiome. Factors such as the Western diet, lifestyle changes, alcohol consumption, sleep deprivation, smoking, obesity, and consumption of highly processed foods are thought to contribute to the increase in early-onset cancer risk. 

Despite these increases in cancer incidence, it’s important to note that the overall cancer mortality rate has declined over the years. Between 1999 and 2019, the cancer mortality rate in the United States fell by more than 27%. This improvement is attributed to advances in cancer detection, treatment, and big wins in smoking cessation.

To prevent cancer, it’s essential to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight. Regular cancer screenings are also crucial, as they can help detect cancer at an early stage when it is more treatable. Additionally, being aware of family history and potential genetic risks can help in taking preventive measures.

In summary, the rise in cancer rates is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including demographic changes, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures. While cancer incidence has increased, improvements in treatment and detection have led to a decrease in mortality rates. For prevention, focusing on a healthy lifestyle and regular screenings is key.