Can marriage lower your cancer risk?

It turns out being married might lower your cancer risk, according to a new study.

While not usually considered a health factor, the study found those who were married or had been married had a significantly lower risk of developing cancer compared to those who had never been married. In fact, women who have never been married had about an 85% higher risk of cancer, and men who’ve never married had a 68% higher chance.

The gap in cancer risk was especially noticeable in cancers tied to behavior and prevention, such as cervical cancer, anal cancer and cancer caused by infections, tobacco or alcohol use. Cancers less influenced by lifestyle – such as breast, thyroid or prostate – showed little change based on marital status.

“From what we see in the clinic on a regular basis, married couples with cancer are likely to have better outcomes,” says Dr. Mousami Shah, an oncologist at Advocate Health. “Marriage typically signifies stronger social support in the form of the spouse or adult children, and perhaps even more courage and mental strength to fight the illness.”

In addition to strong emotional support, marriage also offers social and behavioral advantages that help lower cancer risk. For example, married couples often notice symptoms in their partner and encourage them to seek medical care and screenings, which could help explain why their cancer risk may be lower.

And while the study found cancer risk was lower for both those currently and previously married, that doesn’t mean marriage directly affects whether you develop cancer or how it progresses.

“Does not marrying put you at a high risk for cancer? I don’t think so,” Dr. Shah adds. “Important factors like taking care of yourself, being mindful of symptoms, undergoing appropriate screening procedures and having a healthy lifestyle can all be done without being married.”

Ensuring you have a strong support system – regardless of your marital status – is crucial when navigating cancer treatment.

“If a patient is widowed, having a supportive son or daughter who makes it to the clinic most of the time is a sign of good social support and better outcomes,” Dr. Shah says. “On the other hand, single men with little to no support seem to struggle the most. They are often the most likely to do poorly with a cancer diagnosis.”

The takeaway? Cancer risk and outcomes are shaped by connection and awareness. Having someone who encourages checkups, asks questions or notices changes can make a real difference. Whether that’s a spouse, family member or friend, support and accountability are what matters.

Are you looking for a cancer expert? Find a doctor in Wisconsin or Illinois.