Raging in Place

Gen-x aging resources and community

Category: Generation X

Gen X: A Generation Under the Microscope as Cancer Rates Rise

Rising Cancer Rates in Gen X: A Cause for Concern

Gen X faces a concerning health trend: rising cancer rates. Studies, like one in The Lancet, show increased incidence for several cancers. These include colorectal, kidney, pancreatic, and liver (in women). Researchers are investigating the causes and prevention strategies.

Several factors likely contribute to this increased risk. Fast food, processed meals, and sedentary lifestyles impacted Gen X’s health. Growing up during increased industrialization may have exposed them to more environmental toxins. Improved screening leads to earlier diagnoses, which can appear as increased incidence. Societal shifts like changing work patterns and increased stress also play a role. These changes can contribute to chronic stress, linked to increased cancer risk.

Gen X can take proactive steps to reduce their risk. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and healthy weight are crucial. Knowing family cancer history helps assess individual risk. Talking to a doctor about concerns and family history is essential. Supporting research on Gen X’s specific cancer risks is also vital.

Rising cancer rates in Gen X are serious, but not a cause for panic. Proactive steps and working with healthcare providers can help. Early detection and lifestyle changes impact outcomes.

Article in Health.

January 31, 2025
Gen X: Raging into the Future (with Data!)
Steve Ballmer, former Microsoft CEO and current owner of the LA Clippers, has a passion for data. His organization, USAFacts, dives deep into government data to paint a picture of the American landscape. In a recent video, “Just the Facts About the US Population, Demographics, and Geography,” Ballmer highlights some fascinating trends that are shaping the future of our country, particularly for Generation X. These insights are incredibly relevant to “Raging in Place,” our initiative designed to empower Gen Xers as they navigate the uncharted territory of aging in the 21st century. Let’s take a closer look at the data and how it informs our mission.

The Numbers Tell a Story

Ballmer’s video reveals some key demographic shifts that are reshaping American society:
- Longer lifespans (but with caveats): Life expectancy has inched upwards, with someone born today expected to live to around 77.5 years. However, the average age of death currently sits at 73. This discrepancy highlights the importance of lifestyle and health factors in determining actual lifespan. (Source: USAFacts, “Just the Facts About the US Population, Demographics, and Geography”)
- Marriage on their own terms: Gen Xers are bucking tradition by getting married later in life. This trend contributes to a decline in married-parent households and a rise in adults living solo. (Source: USAFacts, “Just the Facts About the US Population, Demographics, and Geography”)
- The boomerang generation: More young adults are living with their parents, a phenomenon likely driven by economic pressures and evolving societal norms. (Source: USAFacts, “Just the Facts About the US Population, Demographics, and Geography”)
These trends have significant implications for businesses and policymakers. For “Raging in Place,” they underscore the need for resources and support tailored to the unique needs and values of Gen Xers.
January 21, 2025
Soufflé Recipes: A Blast from the Past

Remember those airy, delicate soufflés that were all the rage back in the day?
I’m not sure when they fell out of fashion, but I recently stumbled upon a collection of soufflé recipes from the late 90s (yes, you read that right!), and it brought back a flood of memories.

Remember when we were younger, and everything seemed possible? We thought we could conquer the world, and our soufflés would always rise to the occasion.

Well, maybe not always.

But there was something magical about those puffed-up culinary creations. They were impressive, elegant, and a bit intimidating, just like us Gen Xers back in the day.

If you’re feeling nostalgic or just want to try something different, check out this blast from the past: http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~mjw/recipes/souffle/index.html

Find recipes like :
Chestnut Souffle

Grand Marnier Souffle

Maple Syrup Souffle

Orange Souffle

Souffled Cherry Soup

It’s a treasure trove of soufflé recipes, from classic cheese to more exotic flavors like chestnut and Grand Marnier. Who knows, maybe soufflés will make a comeback, and we’ll be the cool kids again.

January 3, 2025