Marriage may reduce cancer risk

2026-04-12 11:12:00, Lifestyle CNA

A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Miami suggests that marriage may be linked to a lower risk of developing certain types of cancer, compared to people who have never married.

Researchers at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the Miller School of Medicine analyzed over 4 million cancer cases registered in 12 different countries.

The results showed a clear pattern: individuals who had never married were more likely to be diagnosed with some forms of cancer, compared to those who were or had been married.

According to the study data, single men had about a 70% higher risk of developing cancer, while women who had never married had up to an 85% higher risk, compared to married or divorced groups.

Experts emphasize that these results do not mean that marriage "prevents" cancer, but that there may be an indirect link through lifestyle factors and social support. Married people, according to the researchers, are more likely to attend routine medical check-ups, be diagnosed earlier and have more support in coping with diseases.

Physician and cardiologist Chauncey Crandall points out that a life partner often positively influences daily health habits. According to him, couples tend to have fewer risky behaviors such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption and are more regular in attending medical check-ups.

"Social support within marriage may play an important role in long-term health," the researchers explain, adding that social isolation and lack of regular health care may negatively affect single individuals.

However, experts warn that singleness itself is not a direct cause of cancer. Other factors such as diet, stress, alcohol use, smoking and lack of preventive checks are much more decisive in individual risk.

For women in particular, researchers note that factors such as having children at a younger age, which is often associated with marriage, may contribute to a reduced risk of some types of cancer, including breast and ovarian cancer.

In conclusion, the researchers emphasize that strong social relationships and ongoing health care remain key elements for preventing serious diseases, regardless of marital status./ CNA