More people are living 5 years after cancer diagnosis

The American Cancer Society recently released its 2026 statistics report, showing for the first time that 70% of people diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. survive at least five years.

The report highlights especially large survival gains for some of the deadliest cancers, including myeloma, liver cancer and lung cancer, reflecting advances in lifestyle change, early detection, research and targeted therapies.

Northwestern Now spoke to three Northwestern oncologists about what the survival milestone means for patients and the future of research.

For the remaining 30%

“This is a major improvement from the past and the outcome of important cancer research. The challenge is now how we can get the same outcome for the remaining 30% of patients, and how we can do that as soon as possible.”

- Dr. Leonidas Platanias, director of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University

Through decades of sustained investment

“Behind every statistic in this report is a person, a family and a life reshaped by cancer. The progress we’re seeing is real, and it exists because of decades of sustained investment in cancer research that has led to earlier detection, more effective treatments and more personalized care. Critically, as more patients survive cancer, success must be measured not just in years added, but in the quality of those years. Our responsibility now is to keep going. Continued support for research is not optional; it’s the reason these gains are possible, and it’s how we ensure that every patient has a chance at a longer, fuller life.”

- Dr. Mohamed Abazeed, chair and professor of radiation oncology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

Thanks to prevention and early detection

“Five-year survival across many cancer types continues to improve, thanks to advances in treatment, scientific research and carefully designed clinical trials. The report also underscores the critical role of prevention and early detection. Screening for breast and prostate cancers before symptoms appear leads to better outcomes, while healthy choices, like avoiding tobacco, have driven down associated head and neck cancers. Other head and neck cancers respond far better to treatment today — and with broader HPV vaccination, outcomes could improve even more. These trends show that research, prevention and smart lifestyle decisions truly save lives.”

- Dr. Sean Sachdev, associate professor of radiation oncology at Feinberg

Considering quality of life

“We need to think about survivorship beyond survival,” Abazeed said. “As more patients live longer with or after cancer, quality of life, functional outcomes, and long-term toxicity become central clinical priorities, not just survival at five years.”