According to the 2026 American Association for Cancer Research report, the overall cancer mortality rate in the U.S. has decreased by 35% since 1991, largely due to lower smoking rates and advances in treatment, though concerns about funding for ongoing research remain.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) released its 2026 Cancer Progress Report, revealing a significant decline in the overall cancer mortality rate in the United States. The report indicates that from 1991 to 2024, the cancer mortality rate decreased by 35%, equating to approximately 5 million cancer deaths averted. This decline is attributed primarily to reduced smoking rates, which have led to a decrease in lung cancer deaths, alongside improvements in early detection and treatment methodologies.
During a congressional briefing coinciding with the report’s release, AACR President Dr. Keith Flaherty, of the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute in Boston, highlighted the milestone that the five-year cancer-related survival rate for all cancers combined has now reached 71%. Flaherty stated, “Today the 5-year cancer-related survival rate for all cancers combined has reached a milestone of 71%, a testament to the power of cancer research.” This statistic underscores the progress made in oncology over the past several decades.
Impact of Smoking and Advances in Treatment
The reductions in cancer mortality reflect a broader trend influenced by a decrease in smoking rates, which has been a significant factor in lowering lung cancer rates. The AACR report also points out that reductions in death rates for colorectal and breast cancers over the past thirty years have contributed to the overall decline in cancer mortality rates in the U.S.
Despite these encouraging figures, the AACR warns of potential setbacks due to proposed federal funding cuts and political considerations affecting cancer research funding. Flaherty emphasized the importance of maintaining bipartisan support for federal investments in cancer research, stating, “The current turmoil at NIH and other federal health agencies threatens continued progress for patients. We urge Congress to maintain strong bipartisan support for sustained federal investment, so that life-saving discoveries leading to advances in cancer can continue.”
Regulatory Developments and New Treatments
The report also details recent advancements in regulatory approvals for cancer treatments. Between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved 11 new anticancer therapies along with new indications for five previously approved treatments. Notably, the approval of a first-in-class RAS inhibitor, daraxonrasib (Rasonque), for metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) was highlighted, as it showed the potential to double median overall survival rates compared to standard chemotherapy in patients with specific genetic mutations.
Former Senator Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), who was diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer, spoke about his experience as a participant in a clinical trial that led to the FDA approval of a new treatment. He noted, “I was blessed to be one of the guinea pigs in a clinical trial that produced a now-FDA approved treatment for pancreatic cancer.” His testimony emphasizes the critical role that clinical trials play in advancing cancer treatment options.
Emerging Research on Cancer Vaccines
The AACR report also discusses the growing momentum in research on preventive and therapeutic cancer vaccines. Studies mentioned in the report demonstrate promising results, such as a peptide vaccine targeting KRAS mutations in high-risk pancreatic cancer patients that induced durable T-cell responses. Another study highlighted the efficacy of an individualized vaccine for surgically resected melanoma, showing long-term benefits in reducing recurrence and metastasis after five years.
Disparities in Cancer Outcomes
While the overall trends in cancer mortality are positive, the AACR report notes significant disparities in survival rates among different cancer types and stages. For patients diagnosed between 2016 and 2022, the five-year relative survival rate for pancreatic cancer was only 14%, and for glioblastoma multiforme, it was 7%. In contrast, survival rates for breast cancer and prostate cancer were significantly higher, at 92% and 98%, respectively. Importantly, these rates vary drastically depending on the stage of the disease at diagnosis.
The report also raises concerns about the increasing incidence of early-onset cancers, particularly among females, suggesting a need for continued vigilance and research in this area.
Obesity and Cancer Risk
Among the modifiable risk factors associated with cancer, smoking cessation has shown notable success, yet the report highlights the rising prevalence of obesity as a growing concern. Approximately 40% of cancer cases in the U.S. and 41% globally are attributed to modifiable risk factors. Research into interventions for obesity-related cancers, including GLP-1 medications, is gaining traction. A study indicated that GLP-1 usage might correlate with a 41% lower risk of obesity-associated cancers compared to patients following diet or exercise regimens.
However, the report also notes conflicting findings regarding GLP-1 medications and cancer risk. A comprehensive review of 48 clinical trials involving over 94,000 participants found no significant reduction in the overall risk of obesity-related cancers associated with these medications. Furthermore, some studies suggest potential increases in cancer risk with GLP-1 usage. Flaherty concluded, “Additional research will be needed to determine whether these medications can effectively reduce cancer risk, and if so, what types of cancers.”
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