2024 AACR Cancer Progress Report

The 2024 AACR Cancer Progress Report, unveiled on September 18, has brought to light astonishing developments in the ongoing battle against cancer while simultaneously underscoring the persistent disparities in treatment access and outcomes. This latest report reveals that cancer mortality has plummeted by an impressive 33% from 1991 to 2021, resulting in over 4 million lives saved. Looking ahead, the number of cancer survivors is anticipated to soar to an astounding 26 million by 2040. However, significant challenges remain, particularly in the rising rates of certain cancers, including pancreatic, uterine, and HPV-related cancers, as well as the alarming trend of early-onset cancers.

At a recent press conference, AACR President Dr. Patricia M. LoRusso expressed a sentiment of cautious optimism. "This report not only highlights the critical need for continued medical research but also celebrates the groundbreaking advancements that have transformed patient care," she stated. Innovations in decoding cancer genomes have birthed a new era of precision medicine, allowing treatments to be tailored specifically to the genetic makeup of individual tumors.

Key Advances in Cancer Research and Treatment

Between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted approval to 15 new anticancer therapies, further demonstrating the progress being made against this complex disease. Notable approvals include:

- Lifileucel, the first immunotherapy utilizing tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes for advanced melanoma patients.

- Tarlatamab-dlle, a bispecific T-cell engager targeting small cell lung cancer.

- A series of innovative molecularly targeted therapies and immunotherapies aimed at various hematological malignancies.

- New imaging agents and less invasive tests designed to enhance early cancer detection, such as the Invitae Common Hereditary Cancers Panel and Shield, a liquid biopsy for colorectal cancer screening.

Progress in Pediatric and Young Adult Cancer Treatment

The report also highlights significant advancements in treating cancer among children and young adults (AYAs). Over the past two decades, cancer-related mortality rates for this demographic have decreased by 24%. The five-year relative survival rate for children with cancer has surged from 58% in the mid-1970s to 85% present-day. In 2024, around 9,600 children and over 84,000 AYAs are forecasted to receive a cancer diagnosis.

To further these efforts, the FDA has recently approved targeted treatments for pediatric patients, such as tovorafenib and repotrectinib. Additionally, eflornithine has been approved to minimize relapse risk in neuroblastoma cases.

The Ongoing Battle Against Cancer: Remaining Challenges

Despite these remarkable advancements, looming challenges persist. An estimated 2 million new cancer diagnoses are projected for the U.S. in 2024, alongside over 611,000 expected cancer-related deaths. Notably, incidence rates for certain cancers are rising among adults under 50, including breast, colorectal, and some blood cancers. Alarmingly, preventable cancers related to HPV are also increasing, highlighting urgent public health concerns.

The report stresses the financial burden cancer imposes on patients, predicting that healthcare costs could soar to $25.2 trillion over the next 25 years. A staggering 40% of patients may exhaust their life savings within two years of diagnosis, with many struggling to meet basic nutritional needs.

Disparities in Cancer Care: A Call to Action

While advancements have been made in narrowing racial disparities—particularly among Black and White populations—2022 data reveals that Black individuals still faced a 9% higher cancer death rate than their white counterparts. Vulnerable groups—such as rural residents, sexual minorities, low-income families, veterans, and refugees—also bear a disproportionate burden.

Dr. LoRusso’s message was clear: increased and sustained federal funding for cancer research is imperative to continue these life-saving advancements. She urged Congress to prioritize ongoing funding for vital health programs and research initiatives, advocating that taxpayer investments in cancer research have been pivotal in shaping the future of cancer treatment.

As we forge ahead, the AACR’s Cancer Progress Report serves both as a celebration of scientific achievement and a sobering reminder of the work that still lies ahead in the fight against cancer.