Key Statistics for Cancers in Adolescents

Learn about key statistics for cancer in adolescents, including how common it is, who is most affected, and the outlook for those with a cancer diagnosis.

How common is cancer in adolescents?

In the United States, about 5,660 adolescents (aged 15 to 19) will be diagnosed with cancer in 2026. Cancer diagnoses in adolescents have increased over time. There are higher rates of leukemias and lymphomas in these ages than in years before.

Rates of adolescent cancer are about the same for young men and women.

While treatments for adolescent cancers have improved over time, still about 730 adolescents will die from cancer in 2026. Cancer is the fourth leading cause of death in this age group, behind accidents, suicide, and homicide.

What are the most common cancers in adolescents?

The most common types of cancer seen in adolescents are:

• Brain tumors (cancerous and benign)
• Lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Thyroid cancer

What is the outlook for those with adolescent cancer?

Overall, about 88% of adolescents are still alive 5 years after being diagnosed with cancer. But it's important to note that survival rates can vary widely based on the type of cancer and other factors. Progress in some cancers in adolescents has been greater than in others.

Long-term and late effects

Long-term survivors of adolescent cancers are at a higher risk of having health problems later in life due to their cancer and its treatment. Survivors of adolescent cancer need lifelong follow-up care to catch problems early, when treatment is more likely to be successful. Learn more in Long-term and Late Effects of Childhood, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancer Treatment.

Visit the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Statistics Center for more key statistics.