Rates of Some Cancers are Rising Among Younger Adults: What Illinois Residents Need to Know

About 1 in 3 people in the U.S. are affected by cancer and about 2 million new cases of cancer are diagnosed each year.

A new report from America’s Health Rankings found that 7.5% of adults in Illinois have previously been diagnosed with cancer, and the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show 72,603 cancer cases were reported in Illinois in 2022.

Breast and colorectal cancer diagnoses, in particular, have been on the rise since the mid-2000s, and these cancers are being diagnosed more often at younger ages.

Early cancer detection may play a key role in helping to improve health outcomes and lower health care costs.

The five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer when caught in its early stages is over 90%, for example. At the most advanced stages, the five-year survival rate for this type of cancer is 13% and treatment at this stage is more likely to result in long-term side effects.

So, what can you do to help potentially reduce your cancer risk?

Choose a healthier lifestyle

In the United States at least 18% of cancers are related to excess body weight, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, and poor nutrition, according to the American Cancer Society.

A healthy diet can help to support your overall well-being. In fact, research shows that people who eat a “Mediterranean diet” have a lower risk of breast cancer, for example.

Regular exercise is good for your overall health and physical activity has been shown to help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Limit alcohol consumption and avoid tobacco and smoking.

Establish a relationship with a primary care provider

In the U.S., over 72% of women ages 40-74 report receiving a mammogram in the past two years, while about 61% of people ages 45-75 report receiving one or more of the recommended colorectal cancer screening tests within the recommended time intervals.

Remember to schedule your annual wellness exam and preventive screenings. Health plans usually cover preventive care, and you may pay $0 out of pocket for certain covered preventive services if you go to a network provider.

Talk to your employer and health plan

Timely diagnoses may improve health outcomes and help with medical expenses, especially when it comes to cancer. Screenings may include physical exams, lab tests, and imaging, many of which are used in cancer detection and may be covered by health plans.

Taking proactive steps to protect your health today may help you reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic conditions tomorrow.