publish time

25/01/2024

author name Arab Times

publish time

25/01/2024

Record 2 million new cancer cases projected in the US for 2024, American Cancer Society reports.

NEW YORK, Jan 25: The American Cancer Society (ACS) anticipates a surge in cancer cases in 2024, projecting a record 2,001,140 new occurrences in the U.S., accompanied by 611,720 cancer-related deaths. Despite an overall decline in cancer mortality in 2021, the ACS warns of concerning trends in some of the top 10 cancers.

Ahmedin Jemal, ACS Senior Vice President of Surveillance and Health Equity Science, attributes the rising cancer cases to the growing and aging population. While the report suggests a decrease in cancer rates among those over 65, adults aged 50 to 64 are expected to witness an increase from 25% to 30% in cancer diagnoses.

Colon cancer emerges as the leading cause of cancer death among young men and the second-leading cause for young women. Lung cancer remains the deadliest across all age groups, with 81% of projected deaths in 2024 attributed to cigarette smoking.

Rising cancer incidents among individuals under 50 raise concerns, possibly linked to increased screenings and advanced detection technologies. The ACS acknowledges the potential influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer screenings, emphasizing the need to assess the full impact as screening rates took a hit in 2020.

Recognizing the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on communities of color, the ACS stresses the need for ongoing efforts to address health disparities. A 2022 survey highlighted higher rates of modifications in cancer care, including delays in testing and screenings, among Black and Latino participants.

Despite a 33% decline in cancer mortality since 1991, Jemal emphasizes the importance of continued progress, especially in early detection methods for various cancer sites. Access to screenings and preventive services remains a challenge for the uninsured, with an estimated 25.6 million nonelderly individuals lacking coverage in 2022.

The ACS urges sustained efforts to improve detection methods, reduce disparities, and enhance access to life-saving screenings, reinforcing the significance of ongoing advancements in the fight against cancer.