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Cancer statistics

Every person's journey with cancer is unique. Two in five Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85. This is the reality of a world with cancer - one that ACRF and its supporters are working to change.

Below you’ll find the latest Australian cancer statistics. Our statistics have been compiled to inclusively represent Australians by age, gender, and the type of cancer with which they were diagnosed. Continue reading to learn more about cancer and how it affects Australians just like you.

Cancer in Australia statistics

2 in 5
Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85.
new cases of cancer are estimated to have been diagnosed in Australia in 2022; an average of 444 diagnoses a day.
1 in 7
Australians will pass away from cancer before the age of 85 (1 in 6 men, 1 in 8 women).
The survival rate for many types of cancer has increased by more than 20% in the past three decades.
In 2022
lung cancer was the leading cause of cancer deaths.
people are estimated to have passed away from cancer in Australia in 2022.
Prostate
cancer, was the most common cancer in 2022, followed by breast cancer, and melanoma.

How you can support cancer research with ACRF

It’s not just about the statistics. At Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) we’re working to fund groundbreaking research projects that will save the lives of the Australians behind the numbers. 

Supporting ACRF means backing projects that push boundaries and blaze new trails. You’re giving scientists access to cutting-edge technology that drives innovation — ultimately saving millions of lives.

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