New data released by the Victorian Cancer Registry (VCR) today reveals a concerning trend: in 2024, Victoria recorded the highest number of new cancer diagnoses since comprehensive cancer reporting began in 1982. The report, which highlights a total of 39,641 new cancer cases—averaging about 109 diagnoses daily—has prompted Cancer Council Victoria to call for enhanced awareness around prevention, screening, and support services.
Despite the alarming rise in diagnoses, the report also brings a silver lining: cancer death rates have been steadily declining by approximately 1.6% annually over the past 29 years. This data, part of an annual publication by the VCR at Cancer Council Victoria, offers some of the world’s most current insights into cancer incidence, mortality, and survival.
Disparities in Cancer Incidence and Survival
The “Cancer in Victoria 2024” report delves into how cancer incidence and survival rates vary based on country of birth. Analyzing data from 2014 to 2023, the report uncovers significant differences in cancer incidence among various demographic groups. For instance, higher rates of liver, stomach, thyroid, and pancreatic cancers were noted among several overseas-born groups, while prostate, bowel, and melanoma cancers were more prevalent among Australian-born Victorians.
Professor Sue Evans, Director of VCR, emphasized the importance of this analysis in tailoring health services to support diverse communities. “Victoria is proudly home to a highly diverse multicultural population; a third of Victorians are born overseas,” she stated. “Analyzing the data in this way allows us to identify patterns, promote earlier detection and screening, and learn from each other’s cancer journeys.”
Challenges and Opportunities in Cancer Prevention
The report identifies specific patterns in cancer presentation that offer opportunities for improving cancer screening and early detection. Professor Evans highlighted the challenges faced by migrant communities, such as adapting to new customs, overcoming language barriers, and navigating health services, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.
“Incidence of liver cancer is 220% higher among Victorians born in South-East Asia compared to those born in Australia,” the report notes.
Victoria’s Minister for Health, Mary-Anne Thomas, acknowledged the state’s strong cancer survival outcomes but expressed concern over the new statistics. “Through our Victorian Cancer Plan, we’re ensuring every Victorian can get the cancer care they need, where and when they need it,” she affirmed.
Focus on Liver Cancer and Multicultural Communities
Liver cancer emerges as a significant concern, being one of the fastest-growing causes of cancer-related deaths in Victoria. With a five-year survival rate of just 28%, the report underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions. For some communities, hepatitis B—contracted at birth or during early childhood due to lack of vaccination in their countries of origin—is a major cause of liver cancer.
Charissa Feng, Senior Manager of Cancer Council Victoria’s Liver Cancer program, stressed the preventable nature of hepatitis-related liver cancer. “The vast majority of hepatitis-related liver cancer is preventable with existing tools—vaccination, testing, monitoring, and treatment,” she said.
Thanks to funding from the ERDI Foundation and a private donor, a pilot micro-elimination project is underway in Melton and Wyndham, areas with large multicultural populations and high hepatitis B prevalence. This initiative aims to reduce liver cancer impact by addressing barriers to early detection and promoting regular hepatitis B monitoring.
Looking Ahead: Addressing Cancer Disparities
The findings of the “Cancer in Victoria 2024” report highlight the need for culturally responsive prevention, early detection, and care strategies. Todd Harper AM, CEO of Cancer Council Victoria, emphasized the importance of ensuring all Victorians are aware of and can access national cancer screening programs.
“Early detection saves lives. Ensuring all Victorians are aware of these cancer screening programs and can access culturally safe care is essential for improving outcomes in these communities,” Harper stated.
As Victoria continues to grapple with rising cancer diagnoses, the focus remains on enhancing awareness and accessibility to screening and support services, particularly for multicultural communities. The ongoing efforts and initiatives aim to bridge the gap in cancer care and ultimately improve survival rates across the state.
