Cancer risk among women under 50 rising, figures show

The risk of cancer among women aged under 50 in Scotland has been increasing, the latest data shows.

Statistics from Public Health Scotland, covering the year 2022, show the rate among the demographic has increased by 6.5% since 2012, from 123 cancers per 100,000 population to 131 per 100,000 population.

In contrast, the rate for males under 50 has remained constant over the same period.

There were 36,036 new cancers registered in Scotland in 2022, with 18,319 among males and 17,717 among females. The overall number was up by 1% from the previous year.

Colorectal cancer has increased significantly for both males and females under 50 in the decade to 2022.

The report noted that four in ten cancers can be prevented by lifestyle changes, and improvements to smoking rates, obesity, and alcohol consumption could all be beneficial.

There were 1,656 melanoma skin cancer registrations in 2022, up by 8% on 2021. The report said staying safe in the sun and avoiding sunbeds could prevent 80% of these cancers.

Commenting on the statistics, Scottish Labour health spokeswoman Dame Jackie Baillie said: “The rise in cancer incidences among women under 50 is deeply concerning and should be investigated.

“The SNP Government must also improve education around sunbeds so those who use them are fully aware of the risks involved.

“Scottish Labour will improve access to screening services including the rollout of cervical screening self-sampling so cancers can be identified early and many tragedies averted.”