In this article, we will be taking a look ta the 20 states with the highest cancer rates. If you do not want to learn about the global cancer market, head straight to the 5 States with the Highest Cancer Rates.

States with the highest cancer rates like Florida, Texas, and New York, among others, represent a critical aspect of public health analysis in the United States. Understanding the geographical distribution of cancer incidence is vital for targeting prevention efforts, allocating resources, and providing effective healthcare interventions. By examining the prevalence of cancer across different states, researchers and policymakers can identify trends, risk factors, and disparities, ultimately contributing to the development of targeted strategies to mitigate the burden of this disease on affected communities. 

Global and US Cancer Statistics and Market Insights 

In 2020, the global burden of cancer reached an estimated 18.1 million cases worldwide, with common types including breast, lung, colorectal, prostate, stomach, liver, and cervix uteri cancers among others. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) projected a continued rise in new cancer cases globally, with an anticipated 47% increase from 2020 to 2040. 

In the United States alone, there were 1,603,844 new reported cancer cases and 602,347 cancer-related deaths in 2020, with incidence and mortality rates of 403 and 144 per 100,000 people, respectively. Notably, advancements in oncology treatments have contributed to a significant decline in cancer deaths by approximately 29% since 1991. 

The financial landscape of the global oncology market reflects substantial growth, with a valuation of US$203.42 billion in 2022 and a projected value exceeding US$470.61 billion by 2032, exhibiting a notable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.8%. North America and Europe are pivotal regions propelling market expansion, driven by technological innovations in diagnostics and the increasing prevalence of cancer cases. Major market players are prioritizing research and development initiatives through strategic collaborations and investments to enhance their market presence. 

While advancements in oncology research offer promise for improving patient outcomes worldwide, the escalating burden of cancer emphasizes the urgent need for sustained efforts in prevention, early detection, and the development of innovative treatments to effectively address this significant public health challenge. 

The landscape of oncology in Europe shines with promise, propelled by advancements in cancer diagnostics and a rising incidence of cancer cases. In 2020 alone, Europe saw approximately 2.7 million new cancer diagnoses and 1.3 million cancer-related deaths, setting the stage for the region to emerge as a pivotal market for oncology in the coming years. 

Key Players, Market Dynamics, and Innovations Driving Cancer Treatment

The global surge in cancer cases finds roots in various factors, including escalated consumption of alcohol and tobacco. Projections from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) indicate a significant uptick in new cancer cases globally from 2020 to 2040. However, the journey through cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy, often leaves patients grappling with long-term repercussions on their organs and healthy cells, thereby influencing market dynamics. 

The financial burden of cancer care is substantial, with patients facing median annual costs ranging from $1,730 to $4,727, exceeding those of non-cancer patients by $976 to $1,170. Between 22% and 64% of cancer patients experience distress over mounting medical bills. This escalation in costs particularly burdens low-income and uninsured individuals. Globally, men experienced a 19% higher incidence rate of all cancers in 2020 compared to women, although rates varied across regions. Asia, home to over half of the world’s population, accounted for half of all cancer cases, while Europe, with only 10% of the global population, reported 23% of cases, and North America, representing 5% of the population, reported 21% of cases. 

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) led by Jannie Oosthuizen, is a key player in the global oncology market with Keytruda, a leading cancer drug. Keytruda achieved $17.2 billion in sales in 2021, with plans to reach 2 million patients by 2024. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) focuses on early-stage cancers, aiming for 25% revenue from this area by 2025. They explore new tumor types, therapies, and formulations, including under-the-skin versions of Keytruda. Digital marketing enhances commercial execution. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) anticipates growth through innovative combinations and formulations, that align with customer needs. Strong financial performance, driven by Keytruda and Gardasil, led to record-high share prices and better-than-expected earnings per share. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) invested $30 billion in R&D in 2023.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY) is a leading biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative medicines, particularly in cancer treatment. Key products like Keytruda, Revlimid, and Imbruvica contribute significantly to global oncology revenues. Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY)’s recent FDA approval of repotrectinib (Augtyro) for non-small cell lung cancer strengthens their position in the market. Strategic focus includes R&D acceleration and product launches, balancing profit and loss discipline amid upcoming patent expirations.  Financially,Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY)’s fourth-quarter revenues reached $11.5 billion, showcasing strength in key products like Eliquis and Opdivo. 

Our Methodology 

For our methodology, we have ranked the states with the highest cancer rates based on total cancer deaths in 2021. We’ve assumed that a high mortality rate is correlated with propoetionately high disease rate. For the accuracy of data, we relied on the Beckers Hospital Review.

Here is our list of the 20 states with the highest cancer rates.

20. South Carolina  

Total Cancer Deaths: 10,593 

South Carolina faces high rates of lung and breast cancer, with disparities in screening and survival, particularly affecting black women. Efforts focus on increasing screenings in high-risk regions like the Pee Dee area. Treatment costs vary, with access crucial, especially considering a median household income of $58,234 and a 19.4% uninsured rate for those at or below 138% of poverty. Medicaid covers lung cancer screenings without copays, but financial constraints and lack of insurance hinder access to timely care, emphasizing the need for enhanced early detection efforts. 

19. Wisconsin 

Total Cancer Deaths: 11,336 

Wisconsin stands among the states with the highest cancer rates, notably lung cancer, with significant treatment expenses including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Challenges include out-of-pocket costs and insurance coverage. Other prevalent cancers include breast, prostate, colorectal, and skin cancers. The state’s 5-year survival rate for lung cancer is 27.4%, slightly higher than the national average. While there’s been a 16% improvement in new cases over five years, 17.4% of cases don’t receive treatment. Surgical treatment rates for lung cancer are higher in Wisconsin at 21.9%. 

18. Massachusetts 

Total Cancer Deaths: 12,461 

Massachusetts grapples with high cancer rates and significant treatment expenses, ranging from millions to billions annually. Medicare, private insurance, and Medicaid share the financial burden. Prominent cancers include breast, colorectal, lung, prostate cancers, and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, incurring substantial medical service and prescription drug costs. Breast cancer is particularly associated with high medical service costs, while lung cancer significantly impacts oral prescription drug expenses. 

17. Arizona  

Total Cancer Deaths: 12,813 

Arizona stands among the states with highest cancer deaths, with an average of 34,274 new cases diagnosed annually and 12,194 deaths yearly. White non-Hispanics have the highest diagnosis rates, while Asian/Pacific Islanders have the lowest. The overall cancer incidence has decreased by 11%. Lung cancer is a leading cause of death, although Arizona’s new case rate of 42.0 per 100,000 is lower than the national average. The state ranks 17th for lung cancer rates, showing a 20% improvement in survival rates over five years, but only 26.5% of cases are detected early. 

16. Missouri  

Total Cancer Deaths: 13,153 

Missouri contends with high cancer rates, impacting residents significantly. Lung, breast, prostate, colorectal, skin, and pancreatic cancers are prevalent. Financial assistance programs and insurance coverage play crucial roles in managing treatment costs. The financial burden includes direct medical costs, lost productivity, and non-medical expenses. Access to affordable healthcare and community resources is vital for addressing financial challenges related to cancer care in Missouri. 

15. Washington 

Total Cancer Deaths: 13,547 

Washington State exhibits varying cancer incidence rates across different counties, with King County reporting 44.6 cases per 100,000 population and Whitman County reporting 25.4 cases per 100,000 population. Cancer treatment expenses in Washington are substantial, covering medical procedures, medications, hospital stays, and supportive care services. Lung cancer and breast cancer are prevalent, with lung cancer having a rate of 49.7 new cases per 100,000 population and approximately one in eight women developing breast cancer during their lifetime.  

14. Indiana  

Total Cancer Deaths: 13,983 

Indiana has higher cancer incidence and mortality rates compared to the national average, with a 14% higher incidence rate among females and a 24% higher mortality rate among males, making Indiana stand among the states with the highest cancer rates. The state spent $11.12 billion on indirect cancer-related costs in a year, with $2.76 billion projected for direct costs in 2023. Breast and prostate cancers are the most common types among females and males, respectively, while lung cancer causes the highest number of cancer-related deaths annually. Tobacco use contributes to about 30% of cancer deaths, and overweight/obesity is linked to around 40% of diagnosed cancers, underscoring the importance of healthy lifestyle choices. 

13. Tennessee 

Total Cancer Deaths: 14,481 

Tennessee stands among the states with high cancer deaths. Notable incidence rates include breast, bladder, brain, and cervix cancers. Lung cancer mortality rates are concerning, resulting in the loss of around 577,203 years of potential life over five years. US cancer care costs reached $124.6 billion in 2010, projected to hit $157.8 billion by 2020, with breast cancer-bearing high costs. Poverty rates are higher, income levels lower than national averages, with education levels slightly below. 

12. New Jersey 

Total Cancer Deaths: 15,481 

New Jersey faces significant challenges with higher cancer rates, particularly in lung, prostate, female breast, and colorectal cancers. Lung cancer poses a substantial health challenge due to its high mortality rate. Prostate cancer affects many individuals, presenting challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Colorectal cancer screening is crucial for better treatment outcomes. 

11. Virginia 

Total Cancer Deaths: 15,724 

Virginia has high cancer rates, notably in lung cancer. The state’s new lung cancer cases rate is 52.4 per 100,000 population, slightly lower than the national average. Surgical treatment for lung cancer cases in Virginia stands at 20.3%, with a 28% decrease in cases receiving no treatment over five years. Disparities exist, with black individuals facing disparities in incidence and treatment outcomes compared to white individuals, while Latino individuals have lower rates of new lung cancer cases compared to both national and white individuals in Virginia. 

10. Georgia  

Total Cancer Deaths: 18,136 

Georgia has higher lung cancer rates compared to the national average, with 58.2 new cases per 100,000 population. The state ranks 29th for new lung cancer cases, with a five-year survival rate of 23.8%, lower than the national rate. Only 24.8% of lung cancer cases in Georgia are detected early. Surgical treatment for lung cancer is relatively low, with 18.4% undergoing surgery, and 22.1% of cases receiving no treatment. Screening rates for high-risk individuals are also below the national average, with only 3.8% being screened. 

9. North Carolina  

Total Cancer Deaths: 20,229 

North Carolina ranks ninth in cancer deaths nationwide, with around 20,000 deaths annually. The top five causes of cancer deaths in the state are lung/bronchus, female breast, prostate, colon/rectum, and pancreatic cancer, requiring targeted prevention efforts. Financially, cancer care places a substantial burden on individuals and families, with access to affordable healthcare and insurance coverage being crucial for managing costs. 

8. Michigan  

Total Cancer Deaths: 21,211 

Michigan has higher lung cancer rates than the national average, with a rate of 60.0 new cases per 100,000 population. Surgical treatment is below the national average at 19.0%, with an increasing number of cases not receiving any treatment. Medicaid now covers lung cancer screening in Michigan. Indigenous Peoples face disparities in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Efforts to enhance screening have resulted in a rate of 7.1%, exceeding the national average. 

7. Illinois 

Total Cancer Deaths: 23,609 

Illinois faces a significant cancer burden, with 780,990 residents dying from cancer between 1986 and 2017. The Illinois State Cancer Registry tracks various cancers, including priority ones like breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, prostate, and skin cancers, as well as common cancers diagnosed at late stages. Invasive cancer cases reported to the registry total 1,891,426. In 2017, Black males had the highest overall age-adjusted invasive cancer incidence rates. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among females in Illinois.  

6. Ohio  

Total Cancer Deaths: 25,077 

Ohio stands sixth among the states with the highest cancer rates, notably in lung cancer, with a rate of 65.1 new cases per 100,000 population. Disparities exist among racial and ethnic groups, with Black individuals experiencing higher rates. Medicaid covers lung cancer screening but requires prior authorization, potentially affecting timely care. The state grapples with other cancers as well, reflected in overall high age-adjusted cancer incidence rates.  

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Disclosure. None: The 20 States with the Highest Cancer Rates is originally published on Insider Monkey.