More Australians are expected to be living with or beyond cancer in the coming decades. New research published in The Lancet Regional Health Western Pacific estimates that almost 1.7 million Australians are currently living with or beyond a cancer diagnosis. By 2050, that number could rise by 57% to more than 2.6 million people.

For ANZUP, the findings are particularly relevant. Prostate and kidney cancers are among the five cancers projected to have the greatest number of people living with or beyond the disease by 2050.

The increase is being driven by several factors, including Australia’s growing and ageing population, improvements in early detection and advances in treatment that are helping people live longer with cancer.

The projected increase isn’t simply about the number of people diagnosed. It also reflects a growing number of people living for many years ter their treatment, sometimes with ongoing health needs.

By 2050, researchers estimate that more than half of people living with or beyond a cancer diagnosis could have been successfully treated, while around 1.15 million people may still be living with cancer and require active treatment or ongoing care.

This is an important shift in how we think about cancer. For many people, cancer is no longer a short-term illness that begins with diagnosis and ends with treatment. It can be a much longer journey, requiring ongoing monitoring, treatment and support.

Why research matters

While these projections are significant, there is also reason for optimism. Advances in early detection, surgery, radiation, targeted therapies, immunotherapy and other treatments are helping people live longer and, in many cases, survive cancer.

Clinical trials play a critical role in making these advances possible.

At ANZUP, our research is focused on developing better ways to prevent, detect and treat Below the Belt cancers (prostate, kidney, bladder, testicular and penile cancers). Clinical trials help researchers test new treatments and approaches, understand which treatments work best for which patients, and ultimately improve outcomes and quality of life.

The more effective our treatments become, the more people will live beyond their cancer diagnosis. This also means research needs to look beyond survival alone and consider what life is like after treatment and that includes quality of life, long-term side effects and the support people need to live well.

Looking towards 2050

The projected rise in cancer prevalence highlights both the challenge ahead and the importance of continuing to invest in cancer research.

For people affected by Below the Belt cancers, progress in research today can mean better treatment options, fewer side effects and more people living longer and healthier lives in the future.

The numbers may be increasing, but so is our ability to change what those numbers mean. Through clinical trials and collaboration, ANZUP is working towards a future where more people can live life without fear of cancer.