Cancer

Everyone probably knows someone who has battled cancer. In fact, odds are that one in two men and about one in three women will develop cancer during their lifetimes.¹ It's the second leading cause of death in the US and claims more than 1500 people a day.²

Bill Lemond is a cancer survivor. We've made tremendous strides in cancer treatment—survival rates have increased dramatically and continue to increase as diagnoses are made earlier, and as treatments improve. But many cancers, like Bill's, tend to recur and require more intensive treatments.

Despite these advances in treatment, getting sick can be devastating—both emotionally and financially.

Death rates from cancer have declined. New treatments and earlier diagnosis have increased five-year survival rates by 23% just since the 1980s. Survival rates have risen from 50% 30 years ago (1974 to 1976) to 65% (1995 to 2001).¹ That's encouraging news for the ten million people living today with cancer, and the 1.4 million more who'll be diagnosed this year.²

It's easy to discount a few years here and there, but to some people every additional day of life is a gift. Consider Bill Lemond, for example.

"Melba and I have been able to enjoy our later years whereas if modern medicine hadn't had the things ready for me there when I needed it, I would more than likely not be here today."

—Bill Lemond, Cancer Survivor

• Hear Bill's story firsthand

Did you know?

• The odds of getting cancer are one in two men and one in three women
• There are ten million people living with cancer
• Half of cancer deaths are preventable

References