Cancer Survival Rates Climb to New High in U.S., Study Finds

This Sunday marks National Cancer Survivors Day, and a new report from the American Cancer Society brings hopeful news: more people in the U.S. are surviving cancer than ever before. The study estimates that as of January 1, 2025, there are 18.6 million cancer survivors in the country. By 2035, that number is projected to surpass 22 million.

Dr. Arif Kamal, Chief Patient Officer for the American Cancer Society, attributes this rise to improved cancer screenings and advancements in treatments. Since 1991, cancer death rates have dropped by approximately 34%, a testament to medical progress and early detection.

However, the report also sheds light on persistent disparities. Uninsured individuals diagnosed with stage one colorectal cancer have lower five-year survival rates than those with private insurance diagnosed at stage two. Racial disparities in treatment and survival rates are also concerning. In 2021, Black patients with early-stage lung and rectal cancers were less likely to undergo surgery compared to white patients.

“While more people are surviving cancer, we must address barriers to high-quality care, including insurance coverage and racial disparities,” Dr. Kamal said.

The report underscores the need for continued efforts to ensure equitable access to screenings, treatments, and clinical trials, so that all patients—regardless of race, income, or insurance status—can benefit from lifesaving care.