ATLANTA — Cancer rates in the United States have continued to decline overall, but several states are reporting rising incidence trends, according to recent data from federal health agencies and the American Cancer Society, highlighting persistent geographic differences in the nation’s cancer burden.
The American Cancer Society said in its 2026 Cancer Facts & Figures report that cancer mortality has continued a decades-long decline, while overall cancer incidence nationally has fallen compared with levels recorded at the beginning of the century. The organization also reported that survival rates have improved, with about 70% of patients diagnosed during 2015–2021 surviving at least five years after diagnosis. The findings were published earlier this year and remain among the most comprehensive national assessments of cancer trends.
“Cancer mortality rates are the best measure of progress against cancer,” the American Cancer Society said in its report, noting that the death rate has fallen substantially since the early 1990s due to reductions in smoking, earlier detection and advances in treatment.
Despite the national decline, cancer incidence has increased in some states, according to state-level data and recent reporting based on federal and registry statistics. Iowa has drawn particular attention because state officials and researchers have reported a continuing rise in cancer diagnoses while national incidence trends have generally moved downward. Researchers have examined several possible contributing factors, although no single explanation has been established.
Federal data compiled through the U.S. Cancer Statistics program show that cancer incidence varies widely across states and population groups. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the latest available incidence data are from 2022 and reflect differences in demographics, risk factors, screening practices and access to care.
The American Cancer Society also reported that some cancers are increasing among specific populations even as overall rates decline. Colorectal cancer incidence, for example, has been rising among adults younger than 65 while continuing to decrease among older Americans. Researchers have also documented increases in several other cancers among younger adults and women, according to recent national analyses.
Health experts said the national decline in mortality does not eliminate disparities. Cancer outcomes continue to differ by geography, race, ethnicity and socioeconomic status, according to federal agencies and cancer researchers. Public health officials have emphasized the importance of screening, tobacco-control efforts and access to treatment in reducing those gaps.
As of June 2026, federal and state health agencies continued monitoring cancer incidence and mortality trends. Researchers said additional data will be needed to determine whether increases reported in certain states represent long-term shifts or emerging patterns requiring further investigation.
