How Many People Die From Cancer Each Year? (2025)

Death Rates From Cancer

Cancer is the second most likely cause of your eventual death. Unfortunately, many people die from cancer caused by chemicals and dangerous products. These cancers, such as those linked to AFFF, may be preventable.

Cancer Deaths Per Year: A Historical Perspective

From 1999 to 2023, the data on cancer-related deaths shows a gradual increase, with numbers rising from 550,000 to 613,000. However, the rate of increase has jumped from 1,000 to 2,000 per year initially to 2,000 to 3,000 per year in the 2020s.

Which Types of Cancer Contribute Most to Deaths?

The following cancers have the lowest survival rates:

• Pancreatic
• Esophageal
• Liver
• Lung
• Brain
• Stomach

Of these, the types that cause the most deaths are lung, colon, and pancreatic cancers.

Cancer Death Rate Each Year by Gender

In 1999, cancer death rates sat at 253 deaths per 100,000 males and 167 deaths per 100,000 females. Both genders saw a gradual decrease to 165 per 100,000 males and 124 per 100,000 females in 2023.

Are Cancer Deaths Increasing or Decreasing?

The total number of cancer deaths increased from 1999 to 2023. However, the death rate decreased because fatalities increased at a slower pace than population growth.

Decadal Comparison: Shifting Trends in Cancer Mortality

In the early 2000s, the cancer death rate stood at approximately 196 per 100,000. By the 2010s, the rate declined to around 183 per 100,000 due to improved treatments and diagnostic tests.

How Have Cancer Deaths Changed Over the Decades?

Cancer deaths have steadily increased over the past few decades. However, the rate of increase differs significantly. For example, annual deaths almost plateaued during the 2010s before rising sharply in the 2020s.

Cancer Deaths Due to Chemical Exposure

Products from hair relaxers to drinks are blamed for cancer. When a family loses a loved one due to chemical exposure, they can seek compensation by starting a class action or a wrongful death lawsuit. A lawsuit settlement may cover the family’s losses from the victim’s funeral expenses and lost wages.

Cancer Deaths and Environmental Factors

The surrounding environment can increase the risk of cancer. Some common environmental carcinogens include:

• UV light from the sun
• Smoke
• Radon
• Asbestos

These carcinogens mutate cells, leading to the unchecked growth characteristic of cancer.

Learn More About Your Rights From ConsumerShield

After a family member’s cancer death, you deserve scientific and legal answers. ConsumerShield helps you understand your rights and hire a wrongful death lawyer for legal advice and representation. Contact us for a free case evaluation.