Cancer Survivorship in the United States Reaches 18.6 Million

As of January 1, 2025, an estimated 18.6 million people in the United States were living with a history of cancer, representing approximately 5.4% of the U.S. Population. This milestone reflects advances in early detection, treatment, and long-term care that have transformed cancer from an often-fatal diagnosis into a manageable chronic condition for many.

The number of cancer survivors is projected to grow to 22.4 million by 2035, driven by aging populations, improved therapies, and increased screening rates. From 2022 to 2040, the number of individuals who have lived five or more years after their cancer diagnosis is expected to increase by approximately 53%, reaching 19.2 million.

In 2025, 70% of cancer survivors in the U.S. Had lived five or more years since their diagnosis, 49% had survived ten or more years, and 22% had reached the 20-year milestone. Nearly 79% of survivors were aged 60 or older, underscoring the strong correlation between age and cancer incidence.

Breast cancer survivors accounted for 23% of the total survivor population—about 4.3 million people—making it the largest survivor group. Prostate cancer survivors represented 19% (3.6 million), melanoma survivors 9% (1.6 million), and colorectal cancer survivors 8% (1.4 million). Note that individuals with multiple cancer histories may be counted in more than one category.

These statistics come from the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Treatment and Survivorship Statistics, 2025 report, which draws on data from the National Cancer Database and Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program. The report emphasizes that survivorship begins at diagnosis and continues through the remainder of life, encompassing physical, emotional, and social dimensions of recovery.

As survivorship grows, so does the need for coordinated long-term care, including monitoring for recurrence, managing late-effects of treatment, and supporting quality of life. Healthcare systems are increasingly integrating survivorship care plans into oncology practice to address these evolving needs.

Key Takeaways

• 18.6 million Americans were cancer survivors as of January 1, 2025—5.4% of the U.S. Population.
• The survivor population is projected to exceed 22 million by 2035.
• 70% of survivors have lived five or more years post-diagnosis; 22% have survived 20 or more years.
• Breast, prostate, melanoma, and colorectal cancers account for the largest survivor groups.
• Nearly 80% of survivors are aged 60 or older, reflecting age-related cancer risks.