Prostate Cancer in Australia: Rising Cases, Geographic Disparities, and New Initiatives

A new report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare indicates prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian men, with nearly 29,000 new cases in 2025 and projections of 35,000 by 2035. It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for men in the country, with a 24 percent higher mortality rate for those living in regional areas. In response, the federal government has announced the formation of a new expert advisory group focused on early detection and addressing care inequities.

Epidemiology and Geographic Disparity

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia. The institute reported nearly 29,000 new cases in 2025 and projects that number will rise to approximately 35,000 by 2035.

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Australian men. Men residing in regional areas face a mortality rate that is 24 percent higher than their counterparts in metropolitan areas.

Medical Context and Treatment Impacts

Prostate cancer involves abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth in the prostate gland, which is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Common treatments include surgery and radiotherapy, which are reported to be effective for most cases.

These treatments can have long-term side effects. Reported potential side effects include incontinence, erectile dysfunction, penile shortening, or reduced testosterone levels. A blood test is now the primary method for detection, having largely replaced the digital rectal exam.

Psychosocial Impact and Support Structures

Russell Briggs, general manager of the nursing program at the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, stated that men diagnosed with prostate cancer have three times the risk of anxiety, twice the risk of depression, and a 70 percent increased risk of suicide. Briggs noted there is a perception that men do not want to discuss the disease, but added, "if you ask them the questions, men will talk."

There are over 130 peer-led prostate cancer support groups across Australia. Michael Platts, a farmer from Bombala, New South Wales, who was diagnosed in 2020 and is now cancer-free, helps run one such group in the Snowy Mountains. He stated that a conversation with another man who had the condition was helpful and now facilitates similar peer support.

Reported Barriers to Care

Steph Ratcliffe, a prostate cancer support nurse, noted that a lingering stigma exists, which she attributed in part to the formerly used digital rectal exam. She also identified time, distance, and cost as significant factors for patients in regional areas, who often travel to Canberra for treatment.

Ratcliffe stated that peer support can help address logistical challenges, saying discussions about "where they stayed, who they can get help from... can be a really helpful thing."

Government and Public Awareness Initiatives

The federal government recently announced the formation of a new prostate cancer expert advisory group. The stated focus of the group is on early detection and addressing inequities in access to care and support.

Michael Platts suggested raising public awareness through dedicated initiatives, proposing a concept similar to cricket's 'pink test' for breast cancer awareness.