Midlife: A Critical Period in the Life Course for Cancer Risk and Prevention

This presentation will summarize recent evidence that highlights potential opportunities for cancer prevention at midlife. Midlife is a point in the life course when incidence rates for most cancers begin to increase significantly. The prevalence of several other chronic conditions also increases in midlife, some of which have been associated with increased cancer risk and reduced cancer survival.  Examples include diabetes, excess weight, metabolic syndrome, and chronic infection with hepatitis C virus.  The prevention and management of chronic diseases are promising strategies for reducing cancer incidence at older ages. 

Evidence also supports, to varying degrees, an association between increased risk for certain cancers and prevalent behaviors among U.S. adults, such as tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, poor sleep hygiene, a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables and high in red and processed meats, and insufficient physical activity.  Recent research indicated that interventions on these behaviors at midlife can be effective at reducing cancer incidence and death.

In addition to behavioral risk factors, many known human carcinogens are highly prevalent in the general environment, consumer products, or the workplace. Policies that reduce exposure to known carcinogens have been found to reduce cancer risk. Of particular importance and relevance for adults in midlife is the workplace—an important setting for comprehensive strategies that protect and promote health for adults at midlife and at older ages. 

Efforts that support healthy environments, the management of chronic conditions, and healthy behaviors may facilitate a healthier transition from midlife to older age and reduce the likelihood of cancer.