Cancer Prevention & Early Detection Facts & Figures
In the United States for 2026, 44% of the estimated 626,000 cancer deaths can potentially be prevented because they are attributable to modifiable cancer risk factors, such as:
- Cigarette smoking
- Secondhand smoke exposure
- Excess body weight
- Heavy alcohol use
- Unhealthy diet
- Physical inactivity
- Excess ultraviolet radiation exposure
- Cancer-associated infections
Cancer screening tests can also help prevent thousands of additional cancer deaths.
The American Cancer Society publishes the Cancer Prevention & Early Detection Facts & Figures report which includes the latest information and national-and state-level statistics on the major modifiable cancer risk factors, preventative vaccinations, and use of cancer screening tests.
The Cancer Prevention & Early Detection Facts & Figures, 2026 is a data-only update to the Cancer Prevention & Early Detection Facts & Figures, 2025-2026. The latter report is an educational companion for "Prevalence and review of major modifiable cancer risk factors, HPV vaccination, and cancer screenings in the United States: 2025 update," a scientific paper published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention.
New for 2026
How Does Your State Compare?
Learn about your state from the ACS Cancer Statistics Center.
Citations, Credits, & Permissions
Suggested citations: Cancer Prevention & Early Detection Facts & Figures 2025-2026. Atlanta: American Cancer Society; 2025-2026.
Please note that any reproduction or re-use should credit the appropriate American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention & Early Detection Facts & Figures publication and include a statement of copyright.
Glossary for Nonscientists
Featured Term:
Health care barriers
Factors that prevent a person from getting to (accessing) quality health care and services. Examples of health care barriers include lack of adequate health insurance, distant location of health centers, lack of transportation, and no, or limited, paid or unpaid time off from work.
