Cancer death rates are on the decline in the U.S., but decreasing more slowly in rural America, according to the CDC's most recent Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
For the report, CDC researchers analyzed cancer incidence data compiled by the CDC and the National Cancer Institute between 2004 and 2013. Additionally, researchers assessed data on cancer mortality compiled in the National Vital Statistics System between 2006 and 2015.
Analysis revealed cancer incidence rates were higher in urban areas (457 cases per 100,000 people) compared to rural areas (442 cases per 100,000 people). However, researchers found cancer death rates in rural areas were 180 deaths per 100,000 people, and cancer death rates in urban areas were 158 deaths per 100,000 people.
"While geography alone can't predict your risk of cancer, it can impact prevention, diagnosis and treatment opportunities — and that's a significant public health problem in the U.S.," said Anne Schuchat, MD, the CDC's principal deputy director. "Many cancer cases and deaths are preventable and with targeted public health efforts and interventions, we can close the growing cancer gap between rural and urban Americans."