Who’s Leading the Fight Against Cancer?
Cancer remains one of the toughest battles in healthcare, but thanks to continuous breakthroughs in medicine, we’re seeing more hope than ever. In 2024, pharmaceutical companies are not just treating cancer—they’re redefining how it’s approached. From advanced immunotherapies to cutting-edge targeted treatments, these companies are leading the charge.
Let’s take a look at the top 10 cancer drug makers of 2024 and how they’re shaping the future of oncology.
| Company Name | 2024 Cancer Drug Sales (USD) |
| Roche | $27.82 billion |
| Celgene | $18.55 billion |
| Bristol-Myers Squibb | $14.71 billion |
| Johnson & Johnson | $14.31 billion |
| Pfizer | $14.03 billion |
| AstraZeneca | $13.73 billion |
| Merck & Co. | $13.21 billion |
| Novartis | $9.72 billion |
| AbbVie | $8.47 billion |
| Astellas | $5.83 billion |
1. Roche – $27.82 Billion in Cancer Sales
Roche tops the list again this year, and it’s no surprise. The company has long been a powerhouse in oncology, with a deep lineup of drugs like Herceptin, Avastin, and Rituxan. What sets Roche apart is its ability to combine treatments with diagnostics—helping doctors personalize therapy based on each patient’s biology.
2. Celgene – $18.55 Billion
Though now part of Bristol-Myers Squibb, Celgene continues to thrive under its own brand. Its star drug, Revlimid, is a key player in treating multiple myeloma. Even years after launch, it’s still making a massive impact, thanks to strong patient outcomes and expanded uses.
3. Bristol-Myers Squibb – $14.71 Billion
BMS is a major name in immuno-oncology, with Opdivo and Yervoy helping patients with a wide range of cancers. These therapies don’t attack the cancer directly—instead, they help the immune system fight it. It’s a game-changing approach that’s made BMS a front-runner in the cancer space.
4. Johnson & Johnson – $14.31 Billion
You might know J&J for its consumer products, but its oncology division is a force to be reckoned with. Darzalex, used for multiple myeloma, and Erleada, a prostate cancer treatment, are key drivers of its growth. J&J has made smart moves in the cancer space by focusing on tough-to-treat diseases.
5. Pfizer – $14.03 Billion
Pfizer continues to be a strong competitor in cancer treatment. Its breast cancer drug Ibrance remains one of the most prescribed worldwide. The company’s broad portfolio and global reach keep it firmly in the top five.
6. AstraZeneca – $13.73 Billion
AstraZeneca has built a strong name in oncology with drugs like Tagrisso (lung cancer), Lynparza (ovarian and breast cancer), and Enhertu, which is making headlines in targeted therapy. Their success comes from smart science and a willingness to invest in innovative platforms like antibody-drug conjugates.
7. Merck & Co. – $13.21 Billion
Merck’s Keytruda is arguably one of the most well-known cancer drugs today. While it’s approved for many conditions beyond cancer, it still brought in over $13 billion from cancer-specific treatments alone in 2024.
8. Novartis – $9.72 Billion
Novartis is known for its precision approach to cancer drugs. From targeted pills to cutting-edge CAR-T cell therapies like Kymriah, it’s pushing boundaries in treatment. While its sales aren’t the highest, its pipeline shows a lot of promise for the future.
9. AbbVie – $8.47 Billion
AbbVie’s focus is mostly in blood cancers. Imbruvica and Venclexta lead the way for the company, especially in leukemia and lymphoma. Even as biosimilar competition heats up, AbbVie continues to adapt and evolve in the oncology space.
10. Astellas – $5.83 Billion
Last but not least is Astellas, whose main cancer drug, Xtandi, is widely used in prostate cancer care. While smaller than the giants above, Astellas is expanding steadily through smart partnerships and a focused R&D strategy.
Final Thoughts
These ten companies are doing more than generating billions in revenue—they’re making real strides in how cancer is treated, managed, and, in many cases, survived. From advanced biologics to immune-boosting therapies, their innovations are giving patients more time, better outcomes, and new hope.
As research continues to evolve and as more patients gain access to personalized treatments, we can expect even more exciting developments from these leaders in the years to come.
FAQ
1. Who is the top cancer drug maker in 2024?
Roche leads the industry with $27.82 billion in cancer drug sales, thanks to its strong portfolio of targeted therapies and diagnostics.
2. Which company follows Roche in cancer sales?
Celgene ranks second with $18.55 billion, driven by hematologic cancer treatments like Revlimid.
3. What are the top five companies in cancer drug sales?
Roche – $27.82B
Celgene – $18.55B
Bristol-Myers Squibb – $14.71B
Johnson & Johnson – $14.31B
Pfizer – $14.03B
4. Which cancer drugs are contributing most to sales?
Key products include Keytruda (Merck), Opdivo (BMS), Darzalex (J&J), Ibrance (Pfizer), and Tagrisso (AstraZeneca).
5. What trends are driving cancer drug growth?
Immunotherapy, precision medicine, and targeted treatments continue to fuel innovation and sales across the oncology space.