Cancer Death Rates and Incidence Down, Annual Report Shows The cancer death rate in the United States continues to go down, a new report from the nation's leading cancer organizations says. What's more, cancer incidence -- the rate at which new cancers are diagnosed -- also appears to be dropping. Smoking Compromises Quality-of-Life in Old Age Smoking doesn't just shorten your lifespan, it can make your golden years far less enjoyable, according to new research. Smoking Rate Declines For the First Time in Years A new report shows that fewer Americans are lighting up -- a sign control efforts like taxation and legislation may be working.