Incidence and Mortality

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women. In men, prostate cancer is more common, and for women, breast cancer is more common. For many years, the incidence of lung cancer in men was decreasing, while it was increasing in women. Incidence among both men and women has been steadily decreasing the last 10-15 years  with many people choosing to quit smoking, or choosing not to start.

How long it takes to get lung cancer when smoking depends on how many cigarettes you smoke a day. However, studies prove that quitting smoking does lower risk of lung cancer.

For 2025, the estimated number of cases are

• New cases: 226,650.
• Deaths: 124,730.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States. The 5 year survival rate is 27%.

For more information on Incidence and Mortality for Lung cancer, see

• National Cancer Institute: Cancer Statistics Explorer Network
  • This link will provide you with statistics for Lung cancer. Statistics include incidence by age, race, stage, and also survival
  • Lung Cancer Guide | What You Need to Know | American Cancer Society

Lung cancer is treatable; however, due to many patients presenting in late stage disease, it is usually not curative. Many patients receive palliative care.

Updated: April 8, 2026