According to the American Association for Cancer Research’s annual report released on Wednesday, the United States’ cancer death rates are continuing to decline as a result of treatments, diagnostic methods, and prevention measures.
The organization’s Cancer Progress Report shows a significant decrease in death rates in recent years.
According to AACR President Lisa M. Coussens, PhD, “basic research findings have propelled the tremendous breakthroughs that we’ve seen in cancer medicine in recent years.” “Principal advances in basic research are the source of targeted treatments, immunotherapy, and other novel therapeutic techniques currently being used in clinical settings.
The next wave of scientific advancements must be fueled by funding for cancer research as well as support for science education at all levels.
The report, which examined the period from August 1 to July 31 of 2022, discovered:
- In the United States, there are more than 18 million cancer survivors, which reflects the fact that more people live longer and more fulfilling lives after receiving a diagnosis.
- Recent years have shown a sharp fall in cancer mortality, with an annual decline of 2.3% from 2016 to 2019.
- Eight anticancer therapies were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, including the first medication to treat uveal melanoma, the most prevalent type of adult eye cancer.
- The FDA also approved two novel diagnostic imaging agents in addition to extending the use of 10 anticancer medicines.
According to Stephen Ansell, MD, of the Mayo Clinic, who was not involved in the study, “This is a truly exciting time in cancer management.” “We observe that the cancer death rate is decreasing steadily.”
Coussens drew attention to the expanding use of immunotherapies, which harness the immune system of the patient to combat cancer. Additionally, she emphasised the importance of early detection and asked for increased use of routine tests.
According to the research, Black Americans continue to have the highest death rate of any racial group.
