Straits Research released its highly anticipated report, “Global Cancer Stem Cell Market Size & Outlook, 2026-2034.”

Market Dynamics

The growth of the global cancer stem cell market is primarily driven by the rising incidence of cancer worldwide, coupled with increasing awareness of cancer recurrence and metastasis risks associated with conventional therapies. As global cancer prevalence continues to rise, so does the need for advanced treatment approaches that target CSCs, the key drivers of tumor relapse and resistance. According to the National Cancer Institute's SEER Cancer Stat Facts Report, approximately 2 million new cancer cases are projected to be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2025, including around 316,950 women and 2,800 men with breast cancer, the most common malignancy. Such an escalating cancer burden is fostering strong demand for CSC-based research and therapeutic innovations. Moreover, technological advancements and scientific discoveries in CSC biology are creating significant opportunities for novel drug development.

However, the high cost and complexity associated with CSC research, along with limited clinical validation of CSC-targeted therapies, act as key restraints to market growth. The intricate nature of CSC isolation, characterization, and targeting poses challenges in large-scale drug development and commercialization. On the other hand, growing collaborations between biotechnology firms, academic institutions, and pharmaceutical companies, coupled with increasing investment in CSC-targeted drug discovery, are expected to accelerate market expansion.

Market Highlights

• Mode of Action: The stem cell-based cancer therapy segment is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.71% during the forecast period.
• Cancer Type: The lung cancer segment is projected to grow at the fastest pace with a CAGR of 11.23% during 2026-2034.
• Regional Insights: North America dominated the global market with a market share of 41.38% in 2025, owing to a surge in product approvals of advanced therapies.