A report led by researchers at the American Cancer Society, in collaboration with NCI, showed that more than 18 million Americans (8.3 million males and 9.7 million females) with a history of cancer were living in the United States as of Jan. 1, 2022, with over 12 million (67%) aged 65 years or older.
In 1971, the National Cancer Act set the United States on a path to confront one of its most formidable public health challenges. More than five decades later, the progress is undeniable. The latest 2026 report from the American Cancer Society shows continued declines in overall cancer mortality and improvements in survival for many major cancer types. Recent advances in early detection, prevention, and treatment are saving lives.
