Susan G. Komen®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization, today released its 2026 Annual Impact Report, showing the progress made toward ending breast cancer deaths by investing in breakthrough research, support services for patients and their families, public health programs and policy advocacy.

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Susan G. Komen's 2026 impact by the numbers

Susan G. Komen’s 2026 impact by the numbers

One in 8 women and about 1 in 1,000 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. An estimated 42,670 people will die from breast cancer in the U.S. this year. The burden is not shared equally: More women under 50 than over 50 are being diagnosed with breast cancer each year; Black women tend to be diagnosed with more aggressive types of breast cancer and are, on average, about 40% more likely than white women to die from breast cancer; Hispanic/Latina women are less likely than white women to be diagnosed but tend to be diagnosed at a later stage; and breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for Black women, Hispanic/Latina women, and women in their 20s and 30s. Barriers to timely and high-quality care contribute to persistent disparities in outcomes.

“The work Susan G. Komen has done over the past year to advance its mission has helped drive more research discoveries, connect more people with the support they need and advance policies that remove barriers to high-quality care,” said incoming President and CEO Amber Guild. “None of this happens without the people who stand with us. Time and time again, they have raised their hands, shared their passion and taken action on behalf of people facing breast cancer and their families. What makes this partnership so powerful is that it has never been just about the numbers. It is about each person who believes that no one should face breast cancer without the information, care and resources they need—and who is willing to help us create a future where no one dies from breast cancer.”

Since its founding in 1982, Komen has invested more than $1.1 billion in breast cancer research, including $375 million in metastatic breast cancer, for which there is currently no cure. That research investment has resulted in Komen funding 31 of the last 32 FDA-approved breast cancer therapies in the last 30 years. It has also invested approximately $2.7 billion in patient support and advocacy programs around the world.

All of this has contributed to a 44% decline in breast cancer deaths in the U.S. since 1989.

Key Highlights from Komen’s 2026 impact report include:

  • Public Policy and Advocacy

    • More than 200 advocates were empowered to educate lawmakers during the Komen Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C. and more than 125,000 volunteers championed policies that can improve breast cancer outcomes nationwide.

    • Komen and its advocates advanced policy efforts in 49 states that were focused on screening, diagnostic imaging, genetic testing and treatment. In total, 42 policies were introduced across 34 states, with 12 signed into law.

    • Defended no cost coverage for lifesaving screening and preventive care before the U.S. Supreme Court and successfully advocated for increased federal funding for lifesaving breast cancer research and safety net programs.

  • Research

    • Komen invested $15.4 million in breast cancer research, with 72% of funding going to metastatic breast cancer and 88% supporting precision medicine to better tailor treatments to each patient’s care.

    • Its research investment is supporting 36 new lifesaving ideas including 12 clinical trials

  • Education

    • More than 5.3 million people were reached last year with breast health education, and 95% of them reported a better understanding of breast cancer after engaging with Komen education.

    • More than 88,000 educational materials were distributed in communities across the U.S., nearly 5,000 of which included Spanish-language materials.

  • Health Equity

    • Breast cancer mortality improved in 9 of the 10 metropolitan areas for Black women, with significant improvements in Philadelphia and Atlanta.

    • Komen invested $2.8 million in disparities research, bringing its total investment to $144.2 million since 1982.

  • Patient Care

    • More than 21,000 people were served through Komen’s Patient Care Center, with 95% reporting they received the help and resources they needed.

    • $5.4 million was provided to patients and families through Komen’s Financial Assistance program, with 92% reporting feeling less worried about paying for breast cancer care.

The impact Susan G. Komen has made — and continues to make — is also highlighted in a new social impact documentary, Conquering Breast Cancer, which explores the progress made in preventing, detecting and treating breast cancer, as well as the work still ahead. Featuring powerful stories from survivors, advocates and experts, the film’s global premiere will take place at the World Cancer Congress in Hong Kong on September 25.

“At Komen, we surround the entire breast cancer journey—and the people living with it. Every fundraiser, every volunteer, every event and every mile moved makes a difference, reminding people facing breast cancer that they are not alone. It is this collective commitment that turns hope into action and makes lasting progress possible. We are deeply grateful to everyone who continues to stand with us and make this work possible.” Guild added.

About Susan G. Komen®

Susan G. Komen® is the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, working toward a future where no one dies from breast cancer. Komen has an unmatched, comprehensive 360-degree approach to fighting this disease across all fronts and supporting millions of people in the U.S. and in countries worldwide. We advocate for patients, drive research breakthroughs, improve access to high-quality care, offer direct patient support and empower people with trustworthy information. Founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life, Komen remains committed to supporting those affected by breast cancer today, while tirelessly searching for tomorrow’s cures. Visit komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN. Connect with us on social at www.komen.org/contact-us/follow-us/.

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