Cancer Survivors Month reflects on the resilience and courage of those who have survived a cancer diagnosis. With over 20 million new cancer cases diagnosed globally in 2022 and more than 32 million cancer survivors around the world, this observance is a powerful reminder of their strength while also bringing awareness to the challenges they face. So, we had to ask: What is the most important information you need to know about this year’s Cancer Survivors Month?

👉 Official Name: Cancer Survivors Month
💚 Cause: Celebrate survivorship and support cancer survivors
📅 Next Date: June 2026
🌐 Official Website: https://www.aacr.org/awareness-months/national-cancer-survivor-month/
🐦 Hashtag: #CelebrateSurvivors #CancerSurvivorsMonth

Keep on reading to find out all the important information about Cancer Survivors Month at a glance, including its big picture, why it’s important, and how you can get involved. We’ll then share its brief history, three interesting facts about it, its future dates, and how you’ll never miss any important awareness event again.

The Most Important Information About Cancer Survivors Month at a Glance

1️⃣ The big picture: Cancer Survivors Month honors the more than 18 million cancer survivors in the US and millions more worldwide. Moreover, it highlights the unique hurdles that cancer survivors face, including physical and mental health challenges, financial strain, and setbacks in education and career opportunities. Cancer Survivors Month is an opportunity to recognize their strengths, provide resources to aid recovery, and highlight the importance of continued research and care.

2️⃣ Why it is important: Global cancer diagnoses are steadily rising, with new cases projected to reach 35 million by 2050—a staggering 77% increase from 2022. As more individuals become cancer survivors each year, the need to address their unique challenges grows. Furthermore, healthcare inequity significantly impacts global cancer survivorship, with patients in low-income countries often facing limited access to early detection, treatment, and follow-up care. This disparity leads to higher mortality rates and poorer quality of life for survivors, especially for those in underserved communities. 

3️⃣ How you can get involved: You can show your support for cancer survivors by hosting or attending events, getting involved with cancer organizations, and spreading awareness via social media.

• Host or attend survivor events: Communities often hold celebrations, survivor walks, or gatherings to honor local survivors that you can attend. You can even consider setting up your own event in your community.
• Donate or volunteer: Support organizations like the American Cancer Society or Cancer Support Community by volunteering, donating, or fundraising.
• Spread awareness: Share stories of survivorship or resources using hashtags like #CelebrateSurvivors on social media.

Below are our favorite charities that are especially relevant for Cancer Survivors Month:

• Impactful Ninja: Best Charities For Cancer Patients
• Impactful Ninja: Best Charities For Pediatric Cancer
• Impactful Ninja: Best Charities For Cancer Research

A Brief History of Cancer Survivors Month

When was this event established: National Cancer Survivors Day, the foundation event for Cancer Survivors Month, was first celebrated in 1988 and led by the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation. It aimed to unite survivors and provide a platform for sharing experiences.

How has it developed since then: Cancer Survivors Month has grown into a global effort to raise awareness about the challenges survivors face and to create solutions that make a real difference. Over the years, it has contributed to the development of resources like support groups, financial aid programs, and specialized healthcare services for survivors. Organizations like the American Cancer Society now offer practical help, such as free rides to treatment and guidance on managing life after cancer. This growing movement has also pushed for better policies, access to mental health care, and programs that help survivors get back on their feet.

3 Interesting Facts About Cancer Survivors Month

1. Diverse survivorship journey: Cancer survivors span all ages, from children who beat childhood cancers to older adults managing life post-diagnosis. Each group faces unique challenges, such as navigating education disruptions for young survivors or managing comorbidities for older individuals.
2. Global disparities: Around 70% of global cancer-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, often due to delayed diagnoses and limited access to treatment. This stark disparity highlights the critical need for advocacy during Cancer Survivors Month to address these inequities and improve healthcare access worldwide.
3. Famous survivors: Many individuals who have overcome cancer have gone on to achieve incredible things, using their experiences to inspire others. For example, actor and director Ben Stiller, who survived prostate cancer, has become a vocal advocate for early detection and screenings, while feminist icon Gloria Steinem, who overcame breast cancer, continues to be a powerful voice for women’s rights and social justice. 

Upcoming Dates of Cancer Survivors Month

Cancer Survivors Month is observed every year in June.