US Cancer Deaths Fell 35% Since 1991, AACR Report

The overall cancer mortality rate in the United States experienced a significant decline of 35% between 1991 and 2024, a period spanning 33 years. This reduction in mortality is attributed to advancements in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment, according to the 2026 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Cancer Progress Report. The report estimates that this decrease has resulted in approximately 4.9 million cancer deaths being averted during this timeframe. The AACR, a global scientific organization dedicated to preventing and curing cancer, publishes this comprehensive report annually to track progress and highlight key developments in cancer research and care. The 2026 report specifically details the impact of scientific breakthroughs and public health initiatives on cancer outcomes across various cancer types. It underscores the importance of continued investment in research and the implementation of evidence-based strategies to further reduce the burden of cancer. The report's findings are based on an analysis of national cancer statistics and research findings, providing a data-driven overview of the state of cancer control in the U.S. The AACR Cancer Progress Report serves as a critical resource for policymakers, researchers, healthcare professionals, and the public, offering insights into the most effective approaches to combatting cancer. The 35% decline in cancer mortality represents a substantial public health achievement, demonstrating the tangible benefits of decades of scientific endeavor and collaborative efforts in the fight against cancer. The averted deaths, numbering nearly 5 million, highlight the life-saving impact of these advancements. The report further elaborates on specific areas of progress, including improvements in survival rates for certain cancers, reductions in incidence for others due to effective prevention strategies, and the development of novel therapies that have transformed the treatment landscape. The AACR emphasizes that while significant progress has been made, the fight against cancer is ongoing, and sustained commitment is necessary to achieve the ultimate goal of a world without cancer. The report's detailed analysis provides a roadmap for future research priorities and policy recommendations aimed at accelerating progress and ensuring equitable access to the best available cancer care for all Americans. The 4.9 million averted deaths are a testament to the power of scientific innovation and public health interventions working in concert to improve human health outcomes on a national scale. The report's publication marks a moment for reflection on past achievements and a call to action for future endeavors in cancer research and control.