Cancer is a common disease and one of the leading causes of death in Australia. Cancer treatments can be very effective and many people with cancer can get better or live for some time. It is estimated that one in two Australians will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85.

There are many different types of cancer. This is because cancer can start anywhere in the body. Some cancers are more common than others, including skin, bowel, breast, prostate and lung cancer.

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Common cancers

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, apart from non-melanoma skin cancers. Each year, around 25,500 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer.

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Breast cancer

Around 20,000 people in Australia will be diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Although it is most common in women, anyone can be affected by breast cancer.

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Melanoma

Almost 19,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma in Australia each year. You can reduce your risk of melanoma by using good sun protection and being aware of UV.

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Bowel cancer

It is estimated that about 15,500 people in Australia will be diagnosed with bowel cancer each year. It is most common in people over 50, but it can occur at any age.

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Lung cancer

Each year, around 15,500 Australians are diagnosed with lung cancer. Smoking is the biggest risk factor and is linked to most cases, but there are many people with lung cancer who have never smoked.

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Liver cancer

In Australia, more than 3000 people are diagnosed with primary liver cancer each year, with about three times more men than women affected.

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All cancers A-Z

Select from the list of common cancers below for evidence-based information on topics including symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment and support.

Rare and less common cancers

Adenoid cystic carcinoma

A rare cancer of glandular tissues, often in salivary glands. It grows slowly but can spread along nerves and recur years after treatment.

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Appendix cancer and PMP

A rare cancer found during surgery or scans. It includes adenocarcinomas and neuroendocrine tumors, often treated with surgery and chemotherapy.

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Gall bladder (bile duct) cancer

A rare, aggressive cancer often diagnosed late. It starts in the gallbladder lining and is more common in older adults and women.

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Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs)

NETs are rare cancers from hormone-producing cells, often found in the gut, lungs, or pancreas. They may grow slowly and cause hormone-related symptoms.

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Ocular (uveal) melanoma

A rare eye cancer arising in the uvea. It may affect vision and often spreads to the liver if not detected early.

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Advanced cancer

Cancer is a disease of the cells, which are the body’s basic building blocks. It occurs when abnormal cells divide and multiply in an uncontrolled way. Advanced cancer means the cancer has spread from the original (primary) site or has come back (recurred).

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Cancer statistics by cancer types

The information contained in the webpages above have been developed by Cancer Council's National Cancer Information Subcommittee Initiative, and reviewed by groups of cancer specialists, nurses and people affected by cancer. Always consult your doctor about matters that affect your health. See our  disclaimer .