Upper gastrointestinal cancer advocacy

Advocating for Change in Upper GI Cancers

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, including oesophageal, stomach, liver, biliary, and pancreatic cancers, are among the deadliest, and account for nearly one in five cancer deaths in Australia each year. Despite advances in other cancer types, survival rates for upper GI cancers remain alarmingly low, with little improvement since the 1970s.

At Pancare Foundation, we advocate for bold, systemic change to improve survival and quality of life for people affected by upper GI cancers. Our advocacy work focuses on four key areas:

1. Access to Effective and Affordable Treatment

We work with healthcare leaders, pharmaceutical companies, and government bodies to:

• Improve access to personalised medicine across Australia
• Support the approval and funding of new treatments
• Ensure timely and affordable access to essential medicines

2. Increased Research Funding

We raise awareness of the urgent need for more research into upper GI cancers by:

• Engaging with policymakers and government departments
• Partnering with other organisations to drive large-scale investment aligned with our research strategy

3. Optimal Care for All

We advocate for consistent, high-quality care by:

• Advocating for the use of the Optimal Care Pathway for upper GI cancers
• Promoting access to specialist centres
• Identifying and addressing gaps and variations in care through data and policy engagement

4. Evidence-Based Supportive Care

We champion the supportive care needs of patients and families by:

• Advocating for psychosocial support and allied health services
• Building networks to promote Pancare’s support programs
• Establishing research initiatives that will improve quality of life

Together, we’re working to ensure that every person affected by upper GI cancer receives the care, support, and hope they deserve.

If you’d like to learn more about our advocacy work or get involved in driving change for people affected by upper GI cancers, please contact Mark Buzza, Head of Research, Innovation and Advocacy at mark.buzza@pancare.org.au