Being Never Married Linked to Higher Cancer Risk, Study Finds

A University of Miami study analyzing over 4 million cancer cases (2015–2022) found that never-married adults have significantly higher cancer rates than those who are or have been married. Never-married men face about 70% higher cancer risk, never-married women about 85% higher, with the strongest association after age 50. The gap may reflect less regular healthcare, financial and social support, and differences in risk factors, including HPV-linked cancers such as anal and cervical cancer. Experts caution that marriage itself does not prevent cancer, but highlight the importance of targeted prevention, awareness, and screenings for unmarried individuals.