New national data shows that survival rates for prostate cancer have reached record highs. Improvements in screening, diagnosis, and treatment have all contributed to better outcomes over time.

According to the American Cancer Society’s latest cancer statistics, the five-year relative survival rate for prostate cancer is now 98 percent for those diagnosed in recent years. This means 98 percent of those with prostate cancer are still alive five years after their diagnosis. That’s up from 68 percent in 1975 to 1977 and 97 percent in 1995 to 1997.

These gains mean that today, most of those diagnosed with prostate cancer are living longer than ever before. For those diagnosed at an early stage, long-term survival is now the expectation.

Why Survival Has Improved

Health experts point to earlier detection through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and ongoing improvements in cancer care as key reasons for improving prostate cancer survival. Diagnosis at early stages, when treatment is more likely to be effective, has become more common.

In addition, advances in treatment options have contributed to improved outcomes over time.

Learn more about treatment options for prostate cancer.

Survival Depends on Many Factors, Including Stage

While overall survival for prostate cancer is very high, outcomes can still vary depending on the stage at diagnosis. National data shows that survival has improved over time at every stage, though challenges remain for those diagnosed with metastatic (advanced) prostate cancer.

For prostate cancer, five-year relative survival rates over time have been:

• 1975 to 1977 — 68 percent
• 1995 to 1997 — 97 percent
• 2015 to 2021 — 98 percent

For those diagnosed with localized or regional prostate cancer (cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate or nearby areas), the five-year survival rate is now greater than 99 percent.

For distant metastatic prostate cancer (cancer that has spread to distant parts of the body), five-year survival has improved from 32 percent in the mid-1990s to 38 percent in recent years.

These statistics represent outcomes for large groups and can’t predict what will happen for any one individual. Other factors, such as age, the specific features of a person’s cancer, response to treatment, overall health, and access to care, all play a role in prognosis.

Learn more about factors that affect prostate cancer prognosis.

What This Means for Those Living With Prostate Cancer

If you or a loved one is living with prostate cancer, these survival trends may offer reassurance that treatment options and outcomes are improving over time. Still, decisions about screening, treatment, and follow-up care are personal and should be made with a healthcare provider who understands your specific needs and situation.

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