US Cancer Report: Smoking Declines, But HPV Vaccination Rates Stall

A recent report from the American Cancer Society shows promising progress in reducing certain cancer risks in the United States, particularly through a continued decrease in smoking rates. However, some cancer prevention measures, especially those related to cervical cancer, have seen little to no improvement, signaling the need for renewed efforts.

The report, published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, reveals that smoking rates among adults have dropped from approximately 14% in 2019 to 11% in 2023. This decline is significant since smoking remains one of the leading causes of cancer, contributing to roughly one-third of all cancer-related deaths in the country. Reducing tobacco use is widely acknowledged as a critical step in lowering cancer incidence and mortality.

Dr. Priti Bandi, the study’s lead author and scientific director at the American Cancer Society, pointed out that while reductions in smoking and increased cancer screenings are positive developments, challenges remain in cervical cancer prevention. Specifically, screening rates for cervical cancer have declined slightly, with 73.4% of women aged 21 to 65 up-to-date on recommended screenings in 2021, down from 74.8% in 2019. This downward trend raises concerns about potential missed opportunities for early detection.

Equally troubling is the stagnation in HPV vaccination coverage. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus linked to several cancers, including cervical cancer. Vaccination against HPV can prevent many of these cases, yet vaccination rates have remained largely unchanged in recent years. In 2023, 61.4% of adolescents aged 13 to 17 were fully vaccinated against HPV, virtually unchanged from 61.7% in 2021, though an improvement from 54.2% in 2019.

HPV infections are common and usually resolve on their own, but persistent infections can lead to serious health issues, including cancer. Vaccination remains a vital tool in preventing these outcomes.

The report analyzed data gathered before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic from several sources including the CDC’s National Health Interview Survey and the National Immunization Survey-Teen. It emphasized that nearly 40% of new cancer cases in adults over 30 could be linked to preventable factors such as smoking, obesity, poor diet, inactivity, UV radiation exposure, and infections like HPV.

Despite progress in some areas, the report noted ongoing public health challenges. Obesity rates remain stubbornly high, physical activity levels are inadequate for many, and HPV vaccination rates have plateaued since 2021. Moreover, cancer disparities persist, disproportionately affecting marginalized groups who face greater barriers to healthcare access.

Regular participation in recommended cancer screenings continues to be a key factor in reducing cancer deaths. The American Cancer Society stresses the importance of maintaining high screening rates to detect cancers early and improve survival rates.

Complementing these findings, a separate report published in Cancer confirmed that overall cancer death rates in the US have steadily declined from 2001 through 2022. However, cancer incidence trends vary by gender: while rates among men decreased until 2013 before leveling off, incidence among women has seen a gradual increase since 2003.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a temporary drop in new cancer diagnoses in 2020, likely due to disruptions in screenings and medical care. These rates have since returned to expected levels.

One of the driving forces behind the decline in cancer mortality has been the reduction in lung cancer cases, thanks largely to fewer people smoking tobacco. This has also helped reduce deaths from other smoking-related cancers such as bladder and larynx cancer.

On the other hand, some cancers linked to excess weight—including pancreatic, kidney, uterine, breast, and liver cancers—are rising in incidence. Colorectal cancer rates are also increasing among adolescents and young adults, indicating a need for heightened attention to these emerging trends.

Overall, while progress has been made in certain cancer prevention areas, the report underscores the need for sustained efforts to address persistent and emerging risk factors.