2020 State of
Cancer Survivorship

NCCS conducted the 2020 State of Cancer Survivorship Survey with a broad, national sample that mirrors the population of cancer survivors in the United States. We found consistent themes from the first NCCS survivorship survey in 2018, such as: cancer survivors face significant challenges both during and after treatment. While the cancer care team effectively addresses many of the physical effects of cancer treatment, survivors reported that their care team is not as helpful addressing other effects of their cancer, including fatigue, anxiety, and depression.

When we compare the national sample with patients who are connected to an advocacy organization, such as NCCS, we see differences in the level of empowerment and involvement in decision-making. The majority of patients in the national sample defer to their clinicians for decision-making about their care.

Educating and empowering patients is an important goal of NCCS, but at the same time, we must work toward a health care system that works for ALL patients, even if they are not able or interested in playing an active role in their care.

NCCS CEO Shelley Fuld Nasso