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ACS report: Lung cancer deaths plunge as survival doubles

Lung cancer deaths fell by more than half among US males as smoking declined, earlier-stage diagnoses increased, and 5-year relative survival doubled.

  • By

  • Andrea Surnit

  • September 28, 2026

  • 6 min

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Clinical Scorecard: ACS report: Lung cancer deaths plunge as survival doubles

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionLung Cancer
Key MechanismsDecline in smoking prevalence, increased screening uptake, and improved access to treatment.
Target PopulationAdults eligible for lung cancer screening.
Care SettingPopulation-based cancer registries and health statistics.

Key Highlights

  • Lung cancer mortality decreased 52% among males and 37% among females from 2004 to 2023.
  • Five-year relative survival for lung cancer doubled from 15% in 2000 to 30% in 2018.
  • Lung cancer incidence decreased by 38% among males and 15% among females from 2003 to 2022.
  • Adult cigarette smoking prevalence declined 56% from 2001 to 2024.
  • Proportion of lung cancers diagnosed at a localized stage increased from 16% to 27% among males.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Increased screening uptake for eligible adults.

Management

  • Access to guideline-concordant treatment.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Continued tobacco prevention and cessation efforts.

Risks

  • Incomplete or inaccurate recording of race or Hispanic origin may affect findings.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Adults eligible for lung cancer screening.

Comprehensive biomarker testing is recommended.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Sustain progress through tobacco prevention and cessation.
  • Promote increased screening uptake.
  • Ensure access to guideline-concordant treatment.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

ACS report: Lung cancer deaths plunge as survival doubles

  • by Andrea Surnit

  • September 28, 2026

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