U.S. cancer survival rate hits record 70% in 2026, but lung cancer remains deadliest and disparities persist.

The United States' five-year cancer survival rate. has increased to 70%, the highest level ever, thanks to improvements in treatment, early detection, and lower smoking rates. With an estimated 2.1 million new cases and 626,000 deaths predicted in 2026, cancer continues to be a major cause of death even though survival rates for fatal cancers like lung, liver, and myeloma have greatly improved. It is anticipated that lung cancer will be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite advancements, racial disparities still exist, with Black and Native American populations experiencing higher mortality rates as a result of unequal access to care, and incidence rates of breast, prostate, pancreatic, and other common cancers are rising. Experts caution that in order to maintain progress, ongoing funding for research and fair healthcare is crucial.