Cancer medicines remain in short supply across the U.S., survey finds

ByEd Silverman

Sept. 10, 2026

Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer

Ed Silverman

Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morningPharmalittle newsletterand the afternoonPharmalot newsletter.

An ongoing shortage of cancer medications continues to force leading cancer centers around the U.S. to seek work-around strategies to treat patients and a majority also report that clinical trials have been disrupted, according to a new survey.

All of the centers noted they are experiencing a shortage of at least one medicine, and more than 20% of the centers are currently reporting shortages of five or more different medications. The survey was conducted by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, a nonprofit alliance of 34 treatment centers.

Advertisement

Meanwhile, 61% reported they are able to treat patients despite shortages, but only by trying to avoid wasting medicines, limiting use of existing inventory and administering the minimum suggested dosing. Two-thirds of the centers also said shortages delay treatment, because they must again pursue prior authorization from insurers, thesurveynoted.

STAT+ Exclusive Story

Already have an account?Log in

This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers

Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts.

Already have an account?Log in

Monthly

$39

Totals $468 per year

Totals $468 per year

Starter

$30

for 3 months, then $399/year

Then $399/year

Annual

$399

Save 15%

Save 15%

11+ Users

Custom

Savings start at 25%!

Savings start at 25%!

2-10 Users

$300

Annually per user

$300 Annually per user

To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+.

,

,

,

1. Ed Silverman

   Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer

   Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morningPharmalittle newsletterand the afternoonPharmalot newsletter.

Newsletter

Understand how science, health policy, and medicine shape the world every day