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2019 in Review: Top 10 Cancer News Stories

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American Cancer Society (ACS) journalists monitor scientific journal articles, government health and cancer reports, and studies from ACS researchers to bring you news about ways to lower your risk from cancer, and ways to cope with a cancer diagnosis.

In 2019 that included new findings in cancer risk factors, prevention, treatment, and survivorship issues. Here are the 10 most significant stories that made headlines on cancer.org this year.

Breast Implant Recall: What You Need to Know

In July, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) asked the pharmaceutical company Allergan to recall a certain type of textured breast implants because they have been linked to a rare type of lymphoma. But that doesn’t mean all women with these implants need to have them removed. Find out what you should do if you’re affected by this recall.

FAQ: Vaping and Your Kids

An outbreak of severe lung illness – some fatal – thrust e-cigarettes into the spotlight in 2019. With data showing that vaping has doubled among teens in the past 2 years, parents are worried. Get the facts about the dangers of vaping and how you can help your child quit.

Rapidly Growing Older Population Increases Demand for Cancer Care in US

Americans 85 and older are the fastest-growing population group in the US. Because cancer risk goes up with age, this group is expected to increase demand for cancer care. An ACS report in August took a look at trends, survival, treatment and the unique challenges affecting cancer care in the oldest old.

Cervical Precancers Drop Since Introduction of HPV Vaccine

Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be prevented by the HPV vaccine. A study published in February shows that cervical pre-cancers have dropped significantly since the vaccine was introduced.

It’s Never Too Late to Get More Exercise

No matter how old you are, you can benefit from adding more physical activity into your life. A study published in March shows that older adults who added more exercise, even if they weren’t active when young, improved their health.

Cancer Survivors Face Significant Financial Problems

Medical costs are rising, and cancer survivors are more likely than people with no cancer history to have money-related problems because of medical bills. A study published in January shows younger survivors are the hardest hit.

Even Light Levels of Physical Activity Provide Benefits

Lots of research links moderate and vigorous levels of exercise with health benefits. In March, researchers at the American Cancer Society published a study showing light levels of activity help too – things like walking slowly, light housework, playing pool, and fishing.

Study Ties Whole Grains to Lower Risk of Liver Cancer

Choosing whole grains instead of refined grain products are part of a healthy diet that can lower your risk of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. A study published in February found that people who reported eating more whole grains had a lower risk of a type of liver cancer.

One in 3 Cancer Survivors Has Chronic Pain

About a third of cancer survivors lives with ongoing pain, according to a research letter published in June. In May, a separate study showed many survivors weren’t getting the help they needed to manage pain and other cancer or treatment-related side effects.

Study: Oncologists Want More Education About LGBTQ Issues

Members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) community have unique needs when it comes to health care, including cancer care. A survey of oncologists published in January shows most say they want to learn more about LGBTQ health issues.

Want more? Stay up-to-date on all the latest news from the American Cancer Society.

The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team

Our team is made up of doctors and oncology certified nurses with deep knowledge of cancer care as well as journalists, editors, and translators with extensive experience in medical writing.