New national estimates reveal a remarkable 34% reduction in cancer mortality rates in the United States from 1991 to 2023, attributed to improvements in treatment and early detection. The findings, published by the American Cancer Society in the 2026 cancer statistics report in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, highlight significant advancements in cancer survival, alongside the persistent challenges of health inequities.
The report projects that approximately 2,114,850 new cancer cases and 626,140 cancer deaths will occur in the United States in 2026. This translates to nearly 5,800 new cases and 1,720 deaths per day. Despite these staggering figures, the report underscores a substantial improvement in overall cancer survival rates, which have risen from 49% in the mid-1970s to 70% between 2015 and 2021.
Progress and Persistent Inequities in Cancer Treatment
The report indicates that survival rates for regional-stage cancers have improved from 54% to 69%, while distant-stage cancers have seen survival rates climb from 17% to 35%. Notably, the survival rates for cancers such as thyroid, prostate, and skin are among the highest, while lung, liver, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers continue to present significant challenges, with pancreatic cancer showing minimal survival gains.
While advancements in targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and improved treatment delivery have contributed to these positive outcomes, the report highlights stark disparities among different demographic groups. The highest rates of cancer incidence and mortality are observed among American Indian and Alaska Native populations, while Black men face the highest rates of prostate cancer mortality, which are 2 to 4 times higher than those of other men. The report emphasizes that these inequalities stem from factors such as socioeconomic barriers, medical mistrust, and limited access to quality health care.
Childhood Cancer and Long-term Survivorship Challenges
Cancer remains the second leading cause of death among children aged 1 to 14 years, with about 9,680 predicted new cases and 1,090 deaths in 2026. Among adolescents aged 15 to 19, approximately 5,660 new cases and 730 deaths are anticipated. Thankfully, childhood cancer mortality has decreased significantly—from 6 per 100,000 in 1970 to 2 per 100,000 in 2023—reflecting decades of therapeutic progress.
However, long-term survivors of childhood cancer often face serious health challenges later in life. Research indicates that survivors aged 50 years or older have a threefold higher overall mortality risk compared to the general population, largely due to subsequent cancers and late effects of previous treatments.
The findings from the American Cancer Society underscore the importance of continued investment in cancer research and equitable health care access. The report cautions that proposed federal cuts to cancer research and health insurance could impede progress and exacerbate existing disparities, particularly among populations already facing a disproportionate cancer burden.
By analyzing comprehensive cancer registry data, this report not only reflects significant gains in survival rates but also serves as a vital reminder of the work that remains to be done. The focus must shift to ensuring that all populations benefit from advancements in cancer treatment and care, making equitable access a priority in future health policies.
