There were 100,514 new cases of cancer diagnosed in Australia in 2005 (the latest figures available). The five most common cancers were prostate cancer (16,349 cases), colorectal cancer (13,076), breast cancer (12,265), melanoma of the skin (10,684) and lung cancer (9,182). These five cancers accounted for over 61% of all diagnoses.
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 Prostate Cancer
Prostate Cancer Foundation Australia the peak national body for prostate cancer in Australia. It is dedicated to:
- funding research into the cause, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of prostate cancer.
- raising awareness about prostate cancer
- providing support, information and advocacy to men and their families impacted by prostate cancer
Mensline Australia in partnership with Cancer Council Victoria, offers telephone support groups for men with prostate cancer and their carers. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer found in men. This new initiative is an opportunity for men with prostate cancer and their family to share experiences and coping strategies. Groups are available for:
- Men with advanced prostate cancer
- Younger men with prostate cancer
- Family and friends of someone with prostate cancer.
Ph: 1300 78 99 78 to talk to someone who understands; 24hrs per day/7days per week.
Cancer Institute New South Wales - prostate cancer patient 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
- Lions Australian Prostate Cancer Website www.prostatehealth.org.au
- Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia www.prostate.org.au
- Prostate Cancer Institute www.prostatecancer.org.au
- Impotence Australia www.impotenceaustralia.com.au
- Cancer Council QLD - Prostate Booklets
- Localised Prostate Cancer - A guide for men and their families www.cancerqld.org.au/publications.asp
- Localised Prostate Cancer - A guide for men and their families www.cancerqld.org.au/publications.asp
- National Continence Management Strategy www.bladderbowel.gov.au/ncms/default.htm
- Continence Foundation of Australia www.continence.org.au/site/index.cfm
- Public Toilet Map www.toiletmap.gov.au
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.
