In 2005 there were 39,097 deaths from cancer in Australia. Overall, the five most common cancer deaths were from lung cancer (7,427 deaths), colorectal cancer (4,165), cancer of unknown primary site (3,445), prostate cancer (2,949) and breast cancer (2,726). These five cancers accounted for 53% of all deaths from cancer.
(Source: Cancer in Australia, an overview. 2008 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).
Information about Melanoma:
Cancer Institute New South Wales - melanoma information and resources (note: you may need to register to access parts of this site, but it is free).
- Cancer Council NSW www.cancercouncil.com.au
- The Cancer Council Australia www.cancer.org.au
- Melanoma Patients Australia www.melanomapatients.org
- The Melanoma Foundation www.melanomafoundation.com.au
Improving Outcomes for People with Skin Tumours including Melanoma (2006)
Lymphoedema is a chronic swelling in part of the body that occurs because of a build-up of fluid in the body's tissues. Estimates suggest that about 20% of patients treated for melanoma, breast, gynaecological or prostate cancers will develop lymphoedema. There is no cure, but appropriate management and daily care can reduce swelling, improve movement and prevent infections.