It is estimated that there are more than 267 000 Australians living with cancer. The most common forms of cancer in Australia are non-melanoma skin cancer, prostate, colorectal (bowel), breast, melanoma and lung cancer.
The risk of developing cancer is lower for females than males. In 2003 the risk of a diagnosis of cancer for males was 1 in 3 before age 75 and 1 in 2 before age 85. In females the risk was 1 in 4 before age 75 and 1 in 3 before age 85.
In 2006, there were 39,200 deaths due to cancer in Australia. Cancer survival rates in Australia are among the highest in the world.
Cancer in Australia: an overview, 2006, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
Cancer Australia has been established by the Australian Government to help reduce the impact of cancer for all Australians. Its role is "to provide national leadership in cancer control and improve coordination of, and collaboration between, all stakeholders, including people affected by cancer, health professionals, researchers, cancer and other community organisations and governments".
This category is dedicated to disseminating information about cancer-related services and support organisations, local support groups for people affected by cancer, their carers and families.
The Gawler Foundation
"Profound Healing - Sustainable Wellbeing"
Yarra Junction, VIC 3797
The Gawler Foundation is Australia's first self-help cancer support service since 1981. It also conducted the first active cancer support group in Australia. For over 25 years, the Foundation has helped thousands of Australians and people worldwide through its programs and training in cancer and multiple sclerosis (MS) management, disease prevention, stress management and counselling.
Can Assist: Cancer Assistance Network
Ultimo, NSW 2007
The Can Assist: Cancer Assistance Network provides accommodation, financial assistance and in home support for NSW country cancer patients and their carers. It has 50 branches across NSW. Its services include the Viva Wellness Program and Viva Care Packs. Can Assist manages the Jean Colvin Cancer Centre in Darling Point, Sydney; and Lilier Lodge, Wagga Wagga.Gynaecological Cancer Society
Emotional Support Hotline - 1800 700 288
Direct Assistance Services
Kenmore, QLD 4069
The Gynaecological Cancer Society provides information for people affected by gynaecological cancer - directly or indirectly, education for professionals; and assistance with care and finance. Membership is open to health professionals involved in caring for gynaecological cancer patients.Donations to the society are tax deductible.
Emotional support line 1800 700 288 Australia wide.
Nutritional and Environmental Medicine
Veronica Griffin Dip.Clin.Nutr., MSc, PhD
(2 locations)
Cairns, QLD 4870
Many patients diagnosed with cancer undertake their own research and ask for a supportive nutritional treatment. Whether they decide to undergo medical treatment (chemotherapy/radiation) or not, we respect their choice and provide nutritional and biomedical support. We have a comprehensive referral database to holistic medical specialist clinics in Australia and overseas.
Cancer Council Australia
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
As the peak non-government cancer control organisation, Cancer Council Australia advises governments and others on practices and policies to help prevent, detect and treat cancer and advocates for the rights of cancer patients to best treatment and care. Nationally Cancer Councils undertake/fund cancer research, prevention and support programs.Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20 (local call cost)
The Cancer Council ACT
The Wig Service
Fairbairn, ACT 2609
The Cancer Council ACT is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to reduce the incidence and impact of cancer in the ACT region.The Wig Service: 02 6257 9999
Quitline: 13 7848
Cancer Council New South Wales
Woolloomooloo, NSW 2011
The Cancer Council NSW is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the defeat of cancer through prevention and research into new treatments. Its Cancer Council Connect service provides trained volunteer support to people affected by cancer. To support the organisation, visit the SunSmart shop, donate or become a volunteer.
Cancer Council Victoria
Carlton, VIC 3053
Cancer Council Victoria is a not-for-profit organisation that has been leading the fight against cancer since 1936. Cancer Council Victoria undertakes three important aspects of cancer control - research, education and support for people with cancer, their families and friends.The Leukaemia Foundation Apartments
Windsor, QLD 4030
The Leukaemia Foundation has several accommodation facilities for patients' family members and carers - facilitating support during specialist treatment. The accommodation is provided at no charge.Contact details and locations of the apartments are available on the Leukaemia Foundation website or by telephoning 1800 620 420.