The Arc of Cancer Mortality: Half a Century of U.S. Data from the CDC WONDER Database

Background : Cancer remains a leading cause of death across the United States, accounting for more than 27 million deaths among adults aged 25 and older over the past five decades. However, CDC data from 1968 to 2023 show a notable decline in age-adjusted mortality rates, primarily due to recent advances. Despite this progress, disparities still exist among different strata due to various inequities. Aims: The objective of this study was to examine long-term trends in cancer mortality across the United States from 1968 to 2023 and to assess demographic and regional disparities in age-adjusted mortality rates using nationally representative data. Methodology : We conducted a retrospective analysis using the CDC WONDER database, which contains de-identified mortality and population data from the U.S. We included individuals aged 25 and older, recorded from 1968 to 2023, with cancer as the underlying cause of death. Cancer diagnoses were classified using International Classification of Disease (ICD) codes for malignant neoplasms. Results : Despite recent improvements, disparities persist across different strata, including gender (males vs. females), race (Black vs. White), age (older vs. younger adults), and geographic regions (Northeast vs. South), as highlighted in this novel study. These inequities emphasize the need for targeted interventions, equitable resource allocation, and comprehensive policy efforts to support vulnerable and underserved populations. Conclusion : Through our in-depth CDC study, we aim to guide future public health initiatives and enhance efforts for better cancer care and prevention by highlighting both historical and recent trends in cancer-related deaths.