Nearly Half of Cancer Deaths in U.S. Adults Could Be Prevented, Study Suggests
A large study by the American Cancer Society (ACS) suggests that nearly half of all cancer deaths in adults 30 and older in the United States could be prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors like smoking, weight, and diet, according to a report published in the journal CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians.
Researchers analyzed cancer incidence, mortality, and risk factors to estimate the proportion of cancers attributable to these factors. They found that four in ten cancer cases and about one-half of all cancer deaths (or 713,340 cases and 262,120 deaths in 2019) could be prevented.
Cancer and Age
Cancer is a leading cause of death in the United States, and the risk of developing cancer increases significantly with age. According to the National Cancer Institute, over nine out of ten cancers are diagnosed in people 45 and older.
A U.K. study shows that those over 74 make up almost a third (36%) of all new cancer cases. With a growing older population, the number of cancer cases is expected to rise in the coming years.
Long-Term Care and Cancer
A cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a person's ability to live independently. The very nature of the disease and its treatment can increase the need for long-term care.
Cancer care has become a long-term care issue, but there is a lack of published literature on the topic. Patients dealing with cancer treatment-related toxicity or cancer-related symptoms may require complex services, including skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and symptom management, in long-term care settings.
According to Cancer Nursing, an international journal on cancer care research notes that as the population ages, the number of cancer patients in long-term care facilities will rise as cancer is more common in older adults.
Frailty and decreased physiological reserve in older adults increase their risk of further functional decline and make them more susceptible to adverse outcomes, such as institutionalization and mortality.
Patients with cancer aged 70 and older typically have an average of three comorbidities, which can affect the progression and treatment of cancer, necessitating more sophisticated and complex care.
Health insurances in many parts of the world {including the United States} pay for numerous expensive anticancer therapies but do not cover a long-term home care aide.
Cancer treatments, such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, can cause a variety of side effects, including fatigue, pain, weakness, and cognitive impairment. These side effects can make it difficult for individuals to perform daily activities like bathing, dressing, and preparing meals.
Furthermore, depending on the type and location of the tumor, cancer itself can lead to physical limitations. For instance, some cancers may affect mobility, coordination, or speech.
Costs Soaring
In the United States, health insurance, including Medicare, only pays for short-term skilled care, not the long-term care many people will need at some point in their lifetime.
The cost of long-term care can be substantial, placing a significant financial strain on families and a tremendous burden on loved ones attempting to be caregivers.
According to LTC NEWS' survey of long-term care costs, the national median annual cost for a private nursing home room is $111,909 and is growing. Projections suggest that in 2044, that same nursing home care will cost $190,666 per year.
Luckily, most long-term care services are provided at home or in assisted living, and those costs are generally less, but still significant.
Long-term care home health services also help those impacted by the need for care to remain at home and improve their mental health during a difficult time.
With cancer, some care recipients will transfer from a hospital to a rehabilitated facility first before additional care may be assigned, which could be at home.
No matter the type of care, the costs vary depending on where you live and the type of service.
For example, long-term care costs in Topeka, KS, are less than long-term care costs in Providence, RI.
You can find the current and projected future costs of all types of long-term care services where you live by using the LTC NEWS Cost of Care Calculator.
For some cancer patients, long-term care may be needed for an extended period; for older adults who have other aging-related issues, the person may need long-term healthcare for the remainder of their life.
Combating Cancer Through Prevention
The ACS study findings highlight the importance of preventive measures to reduce cancer risk. By addressing modifiable risk factors like smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting recommended vaccinations, individuals can take control of their health and potentially avoid a cancer diagnosis and the associated long-term care needs.
Stop Smoking and Other Proactive Actions
Cigarette smoking was the leading culprit, contributing to nearly one-fifth (19.3%) of all adult cancers and roughly three-tenths (30%) of cancer deaths. Dr. Farhad Islami, lead author and senior scientific director of cancer disparity research at the ACS, says the study highlights the importance of comprehensive tobacco control policies and increased lung cancer screening.
Despite significant declines in smoking, the number of lung cancer deaths linked to smoking is alarming. This emphasizes the need for stricter tobacco control policies and more efforts to screen for early lung cancer detection.
The study also identified excess body weight, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and diet as significant contributors to cancer risk. Researchers found that interventions promoting healthy weight and diet could substantially reduce cancer cases and deaths.
Individuals can take proactive steps to improve their lives against cancer in the first place.
Lisa Lacasse is president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), the nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society. She says the research findings highlight the need for improved access to preventive healthcare and education on preventive measures.
We know that evidence-based tobacco prevention and cessation programs can significantly reduce tobacco use and its associated disparities. Fully funding these programs is crucial to prevent cancer and save healthcare costs in the long run.
Vaccination Can Help
The study also underscores the importance of vaccination against preventable cancer-causing viruses like hepatitis B and HPV. The ACS emphasizes the need for increased HPV vaccination rates to reduce HPV-related cancers.
Planning for Long-Term Care
Given the rising prevalence of cancer, especially among older adults, it's crucial to consider the potential need for long-term care before you get old. Early planning can help you and your family navigate the decline in your health, body, and mind that comes with age.
Cancer is just one of the numerous chronic health problems, mobility difficulties, dementia, and frailty issues that increase the risk of needing assistance with daily living activities or supervision due to memory loss.
Exploring long-term care financial planning, including Long-Term Care Insurance options, discussing care preferences with loved ones, and understanding available resources can help ensure a smoother transition when long-term care becomes necessary. Aging alone is a risk for long-term care, so being prepared protects income and assets and reduces the stress and burdens on those you love.
Most people start looking at adding LTC Insurance coverage in their 40s and 50s when their health is generally better, and premiums are lower. However, if you are in fairly good health, you can find solid options in your 60s and beyond. Seek the help of a qualified LTC Insurance specialist to assist you in this area.
Finding Quality Long-Term Care Services for Loved One
You or a loved one who needs long-term care services need to have quality care services that match your needs. Depending on the reason for care, and the services you or a loved one requires, finding care services can be challenging.
The LTC NEWS Caregiver Directory is the nation's largest database of caregivers, senior communities, and long-term care facilities. You can search and review the care options of over 80,000 providers.
With just a few clicks, you can narrow down the options and find the best quality care that matches the care recipient's needs.
Reducing Cancer Risk Through Prevention and Early Detection
While the prevalence of cancer, particularly among older adults, can seem daunting, the ACS study emphasizes a message of empowerment. You can significantly reduce your cancer risk by understanding the modifiable risk factors and taking proactive steps.
These steps include maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, quitting smoking or avoiding secondhand smoke altogether, and getting recommended vaccinations.
Early detection is also crucial. Regular screenings and check-ups with your doctor allow for identifying potential issues in their earliest stages when treatment is often most successful.
Open communication with your doctor about your family history and any personal concerns allows them to tailor a preventive healthcare plan specific to you. Remember, knowledge is power. By taking charge of your health and lifestyle choices, you can significantly decrease your cancer risk and confidently face the future.