Likely cancer case surge raises health system worries
Australians are deeply worried about their cancer risk, with many believing the nation's health system is unprepared for the expected rise in cases.
More than 4.5 million new cancer cases are projected to be diagnosed in Australia before 2044, according to research from peak independent authority Cancer Council Australia.
A survey of more than 1500 Australians found almost half believed the nation's health system was unprepared for this rise in cases.
More than 70 per cent said they were concerned about developing cancer in their lifetime.
Young Australians were particularly worried, with 80 per cent of those aged 25 to 34 saying they were concerned about their cancer risk.
While cancer risk increased with age, Cancer Council policy director Megan Varlow said governments could do more to safeguard young people's future health.
"We know that 42 per cent of the total cancer burden is attributed to modifiable risk factors such as overweight and obesity, insufficient physical inactivity and UV exposure, all areas where prevention measures can make a significant difference," she said.
"While prevention is key to reducing cancer rates, we need to recognise that nearly one in two Australians will be affected by cancer in their lifetime."
The council is calling on the incoming federal government to commit to four key priorities to reduce the impact of cancer for all Australians.
This includes tackling the rise of obesity, investing in skin cancer prevention campaigns, increasing participation in the national bowel cancer screening program and providing equitable access to cancer care through improved services and support.
"Australians deserve to live healthy lives now and into the future," Ms Varlow said.
"This means having easy access to healthy foods to feed their families, living in environments that promote physical activity ... (and) feeling confident in looking after their health by protecting their skin from the sun or by taking a cancer screening test."
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