World Cancer Day 2025: Things to Know, Where to Find Screening

Credit: Adobe Stock

Each year, on February 4, World Cancer Day is a somber day of remembrance and a cause for celebration. A somber remembrance for the lives lost, but a celebration of the progress made in cancer prevention, detection, and treatment.

In the US, cancer represents the second leading cause of death, with only heart disease claiming more lives annually. However, even with its profound impact on public health advancements in medical research, public health initiatives, and increased awareness have significantly improved outcomes for many individuals affected by cancer.

Experts and leading organizations agree that understanding the importance of early detection and regular screenings is key to reducing cancer-related deaths. With many types of cancer showing improved survival rates due to early diagnosis, staying informed about screening guidelines and resources can make a life-saving difference.

To celebrate the progress made in the ongoing fight against cancer in the US and abroad, check out our list of things to know about cancer in the US based on a 2024 report from the American Association for Cancer Research.

Facts on Cancer in the United States:

• Declining Death Rates:
  • The US cancer death rate has decreased by 33% since 1991, translating to 4.1 million fewer deaths, largely due to improved early detection, treatment, and reduced smoking rates.
• Screening Saves Lives:
  • Breast cancer mortality has declined by 42% since 1989, saving an estimated 431,800 lives, and colorectal cancer mortality has decreased by 39% since 2000, preventing approximately 150,000 deaths.
• Rising Early-Onset Cancers:
  • Colorectal cancer cases in adults under 50 have increased by nearly 2% annually since the mid-1990s, with projections indicating it will become the leading cause of cancer death in this age group by 2030.
• Survivorship Growth:
  • Over 18 million cancer survivors live in the US as of 2022, projected to rise to 26 million by 2040, reflecting a 44% increase in survivorship over the next two decades.
• Disparities Persist:
  • Black men have the highest cancer mortality rate, 19% higher than White men, while Hispanic and Native American populations face lower screening rates, contributing to later-stage diagnoses.
• HPV Vaccination Impact:
  • HPV vaccination has led to an 88% reduction in HPV infections among teen girls and a 40% decline in cervical precancers, significantly lowering cervical cancer rates.
• Lung Cancer Screening Advances:
  • Low-dose CT screening has reduced lung cancer mortality by 20% in high-risk groups, with early detection increasing 5-year survival rates from 19% to 56% when diagnosed at an early stage.
• Prostate Cancer Trends:
  • Prostate cancer incidence has risen by 3% annually from 2014 to 2019, with screening recommendations influencing detection rates and outcomes.
• Skin Cancer Awareness:
  • Over 5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed annually in the US, but early detection through routine skin checks leads to a 99% 5-year survival rate for localized melanoma.
• Impact of Lifestyle Choices:
  • Up to 40% of cancer cases and nearly 50% of cancer deaths in the US are linked to preventable risk factors, including smoking, poor diet, physical inactivity, and alcohol use.

Screening Guidance and Resources:

• American Cancer Society: Information on screening guidelines and resources.
• US Preventive Services Task Force: Evidence-based screening recommendations.
• CDC - Cancer Prevention and Control: Resources on cancer prevention and screening programs.
• National Cancer Institute: Comprehensive cancer screening guidelines and research updates.
• Find a Screening Program: Locate screening services in your area.