U.S. cancer projections: As nationwide rates increase, skin cancer incidence falls
Facts at your fingertips
By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, May 1, 2022
While the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on public health is still being calculated, the latest data from the American Cancer Society (ACS) projects a slight increase in new cancer cases and deaths in the year to come.
Every year, the ACS estimates the number of new cancer diagnoses and deaths in the United States by compiling the most recent data on population-based cancer occurrence. ACS researchers project that in 2022 there will be approximately 1.9 million new cancer cases, and 609,360 cancer deaths — a slight uptick from 2021. Despite these predictions, ACS historical data indicate that the death rate due to cancer for men and women combined has decreased 32% since its peak in 1991.
Melanoma and non-epithelial skin cancer incidence is projected to decrease in 2022, while related deaths are estimated to slightly increase. Men remain vulnerable, accounting for 58% of all new cases and 67% of anticipated deaths. For a detailed breakdown of the ASC’s 2022 projected melanoma and non-epithelial skin cancer incidence, see the graphic below.
