Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Australian men, with 1 in 6 men being diagnosed in their lifetime. In 2022, an estimated 24,217 new cases were reported nationwide, making up about 30% of all new cancer diagnoses in men. The condition is more prevalent in men over the age of 50, with the risk increasing as men age.

In Queensland, approximately 4,754 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually, and the disease is responsible for a significant number of cancer-related deaths. Men in regional and remote areas of Queensland, such as the Outback, experience higher incidence and mortality rates compared to urban areas.

Treatment for prostate cancer depends on the stage and severity of the disease. Options include active surveillance for low-risk cancers, surgery such as robotic prostatectomy for more advanced stages, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and, in some cases, chemotherapy. Early detection through PSA testing and regular screening is essential for better outcomes, especially for men with a family history or those over 50.