City of Hope Sets New Standard for Cancer Survivors

For the first time in history, 70% of Americans diagnosed with cancer are surviving at least five years, creating a new challenge: how do we help nearly 19 million survivors live their best lives after treatment?

City of Hope, one of America's largest cancer research organizations, is answering that question with a groundbreaking approach to survivorship care that starts at diagnosis and continues for life. The initiative recognizes that beating cancer is just the beginning of a longer journey.

"More people are surviving cancer than ever before, which is a testament to wondrous innovation," said Robert Stone, CEO of City of Hope. "Yet that progress also brings a new responsibility."

The center's approach is built on data from following more than 15,000 long-term survivors for decades. Their research has revealed something critical: cancer survivors face elevated risks for heart disease, second cancers, and accelerated aging years after treatment ends.

That's why City of Hope developed specialized programs that coordinate care between cancer specialists and primary care doctors. Survivors receive tailored monitoring based on their specific cancer type, treatments, and risk profile, along with support for everything from nutrition to emotional health.

To mark National Cancer Survivors Month, City of Hope launched the Hope Line, inviting survivors, caregivers, and loved ones to answer one powerful question: What would you say to someone who just heard "You have cancer?"

"There are people like myself who have gone through it and are here for you," said actress and breast cancer survivor Olivia Munn in her Hope Line message. "Once you have been given this diagnosis, there is this kindred feeling with so many other people in the world."

The Hope Line features messages from Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, musician Andrew McMahon, and everyday survivors creating a nationwide chorus of encouragement rooted in lived experience.

The Ripple Effect

City of Hope's survivorship model is expanding across their national network, ensuring patients receive consistent guidance no matter where they're treated. Their research directly shapes clinical guidelines that help cancer centers nationwide improve long-term follow-up care.

As survivorship becomes recognized as a standard of care rather than an afterthought, millions of Americans living beyond cancer will benefit from this research-driven approach.

The science that helps people survive cancer is now being matched by the science that helps them truly live.