PHOENIX, Ariz. [June 4, 2026] — As the number of cancer survivors in the United States continues to grow, Arizona cancer specialists are calling attention to the increasing need for comprehensive survivorship care that extends well beyond treatment.

In recognition of National Cancer Survivors Month, Arizona Center for Cancer Care (AZCCC) is celebrating the strength, resilience and courage of the more than 18.1 million cancer survivors living in the United States today while highlighting the unique challenges many face after a cancer diagnosis.

According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 67% of individuals diagnosed with cancer survive five years or more after diagnosis. By 2030, the number of cancer survivors is projected to reach 22 million, underscoring significant advances in cancer treatment and early detection while creating a growing demand for long-term survivorship support.
“Every survivor has a unique story of perseverance, hope and determination,” said Dr. Wishwdeep Dhillon, medical oncologist and hematologist with Arizona Center for Cancer Care and HonorHealth Cancer Care. “Today, survivorship begins at the moment of diagnosis, not simply when treatment ends. Our goal is to support patients physically, emotionally and socially throughout their entire cancer experience.”
National Cancer Survivors Month, first observed in 1988, recognizes individuals who have faced cancer, celebrates their achievements and raises awareness about the ongoing medical, emotional and social challenges that often continue long after treatment is completed.

The oncology community has broadened its definition of survivorship over the years. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), a person is considered a cancer survivor from the time of diagnosis through the remainder of life. The definition also recognizes the impact cancer has on family members, friends and caregivers who share in the journey.
“Historically, the term survivor was reserved for patients who had completed treatment and were in remission,” Dr. Dhillon said. “Today we understand that survivorship starts on day one, which means support services should begin immediately and continue throughout every phase of care.”

Cancer survivorship is commonly categorized into several phases, including acute survivorship during active treatment, extended survivorship following treatment completion, permanent survivorship involving long-term recovery and monitoring, and living with cancer as an ongoing chronic condition.

While completing treatment is a significant milestone, many survivors face long-term physical and emotional effects, including fatigue, cognitive changes often referred to as “chemo brain,” anxiety about recurrence, peripheral neuropathy and changes in relationships or body image, for this reason, a survivorship planning plays a critical role in helping patients navigate these challenges and maintain quality of life.

“Every survivor’s journey is unique, but they all share a remarkable determination to move forward and embrace life after cancer,” said Dr. Ashley Albert, radiation oncologist with AZCCC and HonorHealth Cancer Care. “Survivorship is not just about living longer; it is about living fully. Our mission is to ensure every patient has the resources, knowledge and support they need to thrive.”

Patients receiving care through AZCCC have access to more than 135 multi-specialty physicians across more than 55 locations throughout Maricopa County and surrounding Arizona communities, helping ensure survivorship services remain accessible and close to home.

To support patients during and after treatment, AZCCC in partnership with HonorHealth Cancer Care offers a comprehensive survivorship program that provides education, resources and guidance on follow-up care, future screenings, emotional wellness, stress management and communication with loved ones.

For more information visit: https://www.honorhealth.com/medical-services/cancer-care/support-services.