The most common cancer in Australian men
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian men, with thousands of new cases identified each year. This type of cancer begins in the prostate, a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, which plays an essential role in male reproductive health.
Key facts about prostate cancer in Australia
- Prevalence: Prostate cancer accounts for around 25% of all cancer diagnoses in Australian men.
- Lifetime Risk: About 1 in 6 Australian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by the age of 85.
- Age Factor: It is predominantly a disease of older men, with the average age of diagnosis being 69 years.
- Survival Rates: Thanks to advancements in medical technology and early detection, the 5-year survival rate for prostate cancer in Australia is over 95%.
- Mortality: Despite high survival rates, prostate cancer remains a significant cause of cancer-related deaths, with over 3,000 Australian men dying from the disease each year.