Drop in Cancer Deaths

Drop in Cancer Deaths

This is from a news release just sent today to the media by The American Cancer Society (where I work). Watch for the complete news release in your local paper or media. The full report can be viewed at www.cancer.org/statistics.

American Cancer Society Reports Steepest Drop Ever in Cancer Deaths“ Jan. 17, 2007 – An American Cancer Society report shows there was a drop of 3,014 cancer deaths in the United States from 2003 to 2004, the most recent year for which mortality data are available from the National Center for Health Statistics. This drop was significantly larger than the 369 fewer deaths reported for the previous time period (2002 to 2003), which itself marked the first decline in actual number of cancer deaths in the more than 70 years since nationwide data began to be compiled.

In Minnesota, cancer deaths dropped from 9,182 in 2003 to 9,091 in 2004, an even larger proportional decrease than seen nationally (0.5 percent decrease nationally, compared to one percent decrease in Minnesota.*

“Everyone involved in the fight against cancer should be proud of this remarkable achievement. For the second straight year, we've seen a decline in the real number of cancer deaths in Minnesota and nationally. What's exciting is how dramatic the drop was this year as compared to last year, which was the first time in 70 years that cancer deaths decreased,” said American Cancer Society Minnesota Health Promotions Director Matt Flory.”

* Minnesota-based statistics provided by the Minnesota Cancer Surveillance System in the Minnesota Dept. of Health.
* The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.