What Gen X and Millennials Should Know About their Cancer Risk

Cancer rates are on the rise for Gen-Xers (those born from 1961- 1980) and millennials (those born from 1981 – 1997) based on new findings by the American Cancer Society. Researchers found significant increases in 17 of the 34 most common cancers among younger generations. In the U.S., an average of 80,000 young adults are diagnosed with cancer each year.

This recent study followed cancer data and mortality rates from 2000 to 2019 in those ages 25-84. Though there is no clear explanation, research suggests that changes in lifestyle and diet, as well as environmental changes are driving the higher risks across generations. This includes red meat and processed food consumption, rising obesity rates, diets high in saturated fats, poor sleep habits, sedentary lifestyles and exposure to pollutants and carcinogenic chemicals. Kidney, pancreatic, and cancer of the small intestine are three times higher for millennials than previous generations, with millennial women seeing a higher risk of developing liver and bile duct cancers. The study also found significant increases in the diagnosis of estrogen positive breast, stomach, ovarian and colorectal cancers.

While the risk of getting certain cancers is higher in younger generations, the risk of death from most of those cancers has not seen an upward trend. This could point to greater access to healthcare, screenings and treatment in underserved communities, as well as an increase in community awareness. There is, however, a rise in death rates among young people diagnosed with some cancers like gallbladder, testicular, colorectal, and liver. It’s important to note that routine preventive screenings are only recommended for colon, cervical, breast and for some, lung cancer, and those at risk may not meet the age requirement to get screened. As trends change, medical experts continue to review current screening guidelines, and in some cases, make recommendations for change. For example, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force lowered the age for routine colonoscopies from 50 to 45 years of age.

Cancer is occurring at younger and younger ages, so it’s important to address the underlying risk factors for Gen-Xers and millennials and stress the importance of prioritizing their health with routine check-ups and making changes early on. Limit or avoid alcohol, don’t smoke or use any type of tobacco products, stay active and follow a diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s also important to know your family history, understand how that can impact your health and be proactive about your risk of developing certain cancers.