One in five people will develop cancer in their lifetime, report finds

New findings in a report led by the American Cancer Society (ACS) reveal an urgent picture of a growing global cancer burden and underscore the lifesaving potential of stronger prevention and equitable access to care.

According to Global Cancer Statistics, 2026, nearly 21 million people were diagnosed with cancer and 9.8 million died from the disease globally in 2024.

The estimates show about 1 in 5 people worldwide will develop cancer during their lifetime; 1 in 9 men and 1 in 13 women will die from the disease. ...