What does this measure?

The age-adjusted rate of all new cancers diagnosed per 10,000 residents, averaged over three years.

Why is this important?

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and the second highest cause of death in Pennsylvania behind diseases of the heart. High incidence rates can indicate particularly high rates of cancer, environmental or behavior risks of cancers, or better diagnosis of cancers.

How is our county performing?

In 2015-17, Berks County's cancer incidence rate was 47 per 10,000 residents, similar to the state. The number of new cancers diagnosed in 2015-17 was 7,350 in Berks and 234,440 in the state.

The cancer incidence rate in 2015-17 was slightly smaller than Berks in Lancaster (45), Chester, Lebanon and Montgomery (each 46). Lehigh and Schuylkill (both at 49) had higher rates.

Notes about the data

Rates have been adjusted for differences in age among the geographies. These data were provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The Department specifically disclaims responsibility for any analyses, interpretations, or conclusions.

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