Lung Cancer: Leading Cancer Killer in the US (ACS 2022 Data)

According to the American Cancer Society's 2022 estimates, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the United States.

Key Statistics (2022 Estimates)

• Deaths: 130,180 (68,820 men, 61,360 women)
• New cases: 236,740 (117,910 men, 118,830 women)
• Share of cancer deaths: ~25% (more than breast, prostate, and colorectal combined)
• 5-year relative survival (all stages): 23%
• 5-year survival by stage: Localized 63%, Regional 35%, Distant 8%

Trends

• Incidence declining (↓2.5%/year men, ↓1.1%/year women, 2014–2018) due to reduced smoking.
• Mortality declining faster (↓5%/year) due to screening (LDCT) and treatment advances (targeted therapy, immunotherapy).
• Disparities persist: Black men have highest incidence/mortality; rural, low-SES populations lag in screening access.

Screening Impact

Low-dose CT (LDCT) for high-risk adults (50–80, 20 pack-year history, current/former <15 years) reduces mortality by 20% (NLST) to 24% (NELSON). USPSTF Grade B recommendation.

Prevention Priority

• Tobacco control (cessation, prevention, policy)
• Radon testing and mitigation
• Occupational protections
• Screening eligible populations