A large US cohort study has found that common midlife health conditions are significantly associated with future cancer risk and cancer-related death, with some conditions posing stronger risks for specific cancer types.
The study analysed data from 128,999 adults aged 55 to 74 who had no prior history of cancer, enrolled in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) screening trial between 1993 and 2001. Researchers assessed the impact of 12 self-reported comorbid conditions, including cardiovascular, respiratory, liver, and metabolic disorders, on the risk of developing 19 types of cancer and cancer mortality over a median follow-up of 20 years.
Participants with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions in midlife had a modestly increased risk of developing any cancer (hazard ratios [HR] of 1.07 and 1.02, respectively). Notably, individuals with liver conditions had over five times the risk of developing liver cancer compared to those without (HR: 5.57). Metabolic conditions such as obesity or type 2 diabetes were linked to increased risk of nine cancer types, but a reduced risk in four others.
Comorbidities were also associated with a higher likelihood of dying from cancer, particularly respiratory (HR: 1.19), cardiovascular (HR: 1.08), and metabolic (HR: 1.09) conditions. The findings, published following analysis completed in late 2024, suggest that managing chronic conditions in midlife could play a key role in reducing cancer risk and improving outcomes. Researchers believe this may aid clinicians in tailoring preventive strategies for at-risk individuals.
Reference
Lavery JA et al. Comorbidity in midlife and cancer outcomes. JAMA Netw Open. 2025;8(4):e253469.
