National Cancer Survivors Day is a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and journeys of millions of people living beyond a cancer diagnosis. But survivorship is often more complex than many realize. According to data from the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Cancer Registry, there are an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 cancer survivors living in El Paso County.The state tracks survivorship based on anyone who has ever received a cancer diagnosis and is alive today (including those currently in treatment and those who are cancer-free).
This number of survivors can be expected to grow with upcoming opening of the Fox Cancer Center, a comprehensive cancer care center made possible by University Medical Center and Texas Tech Health El Paso.
Today, more people are surviving cancer than ever before, thanks to advances in early detection, treatment, and research. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimates that there are now about 18.6 million cancer survivors in the United States, and that number is expected to grow to more than 22 million by 2035.
Here are five things many people may not know about cancer survivorship.
- Survivorship Starts at Diagnosis
Many people are surprised to learn that a person is considered a cancer survivor from the moment they are diagnosed—not only after treatment ends. Survivorship includes every stage of the journey, from diagnosis and treatment to recovery and long-term follow-up care.
- Recovery Can Last for Years
Finishing treatment does not always mean life immediately returns to normal. Some survivors continue dealing with fatigue, pain, emotional stress, or side effects long after treatment ends.
For many, survivorship includes ongoing follow-up appointments, screenings, and lifestyle adjustments.
- Survival Rates Have Improved
Cancer outcomes have improved significantly over the past several decades. According to recent data from the American Cancer Society, about 70 percent of people diagnosed with cancer now survive at least five years after diagnosis, compared to about 50 percent in the mid-1970s.
Experts credit advances in research, earlier detection, and improved treatment options for helping more patients live longer.
- Mental Health Matters Too
The emotional side of survivorship is often overlooked. Anxiety, fear of recurrence, stress, and even feelings of isolation can affect survivors during and after treatment.
Strong support systems, mental health resources, and open conversations about survivorship can make a meaningful difference throughout recovery.
- Early Detection Still Saves Lives
One of the biggest reasons survival rates continue to improve is early detection. Routine screenings and regular medical care can help identify some cancers earlier, when treatment may be more effective.
The American Cancer Society also reports that millions of cancer deaths have been prevented over the past several decades because of prevention efforts, screenings, and treatment advances.
National Cancer Survivors Day is not only about celebrating survival but also recognizing the ongoing journey many survivors continue to navigate every day.
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